Carrying nostalgia in my heart but with great enthusiasm and a big smile on my face, I set off for the Ethnographic Park on the last day of Jazz in the Park. It was just as beautiful as the first two days, with good music, fluffy dogs, and wonderful people!
On the Porch with Gabriel Sandu
I couldn’t miss the last porch gathering of this festival edition— porch that has become very dear to me over these three days. The discussion, led by Diana Popescu, featured Gabriel Sandu as the guest, a theater director and screenwriter you’ve probably heard of from productions like “10 things we have lost at the Mamaia Festival” or “Adrenaline.”
Beyond the delightful humor of the two, I learned about Gabriel’s experience as an actor and how that time influenced his approach on set and his relationships with actors.
There was talk of music, artistry, writing, directing, sets, stages, and singing itself—all the elements that leave their mark on Gabriel Sandu’s productions, who impressed us with his ease, authenticity, and sincerity.
I will fondly remember the porch and the cultural experience it offered me, and I eagerly look forward to discovering new beautiful people next year, with great humor and experiences to share.
Let’s Cărturești in the Apple Orchard!
The lights, swings, and trees in the Apple Orchard called my name on the last evening of the festival, so I responded to their calling and picked out a book from the Cărturești corner. I settled into a bean bag under a tree, ate an apple from the Orchard, and enjoyed some reading. “Music: A Subversive History” by Ted Gioia kept me company for an hour, during which I recharged my batteries and prepared to explore the park.
Tourism in our own Home
I ended my experience at this year’s Jazz in the Park with a walk. The houses, trees, and courtyards in the park are also a main attraction of the festival. I had the chance to enjoy the listening room at Estelio, which piqued my curiosity about the architecture in the Ethnographic Park. At an easy pace, I visited all the little houses in the festival and felt like I was transported back in time to my grandparents’ orchard.
Listening to the rhythms of jazz, I concluded this edition of the festival, which became one of my favorites from the very first moments. Being my first time attending, it fascinated me. I think I will carry this experience with me for a long time, and I hope you will too, dear reader.
See you next year!
Written by Iulia Preda, Communication Volunteer
