To update information or submit an event, email ACTA.
Generaciones: Three Generations of Mexican Women Immigrants
Through August 20, 2005
San Diego Museum of Man
1350 El Prado
Balboa Park
San Diego, CA
“Generaciones: Three Generations of Mexican Women Immigrants” celebrates the similarities and differences among generations, and enhances understanding of the immigrant experience. The San Diego Museum of Man, Barrio Logan College Institute (BLCI), film maker Joyce Axelrod, and artist Viviana Lombrozo are collaborating to bring several public programs to the Museum this spring.
Through a grant from the California Council for the Humanities California Story Fund, BLCI is documenting the lives of women from five Mexican immigrant families. Film maker Joyce Axelrod interviewed and videotaped the women—including grandmothers born in Mexico, mothers who were the first generation to emigrate, and daughters born in California. The families were given video cameras so they could document aspects of their own lives. The videos will be incorporated into a documentary that will be shown regularly in the Museum Orientation Center through June 15.
Artist Viviana Lombrozo has been working with the five families to create art that interprets the individual ways family ties are maintained. For example, one family enjoys cooking and sharing traditional foods, and their project will visually depict their family's culinary history. The art projects will be featured in a Main Floor exhibit.
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily
For more information call (619) 239-2001 or visit the museum’s website.
top
Imagine the Mission Photography Exhibition
Through August 22, 2005
Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
2868 Mission Street
San Francisco , CA
Imagine The Mission, as captured through the lens of photographers, reflects the vitality, excitement, vibrancy, and color of the Mission District. The photographs capture bits and pieces of the district’s people, politics, self-identity, arts & culture. The exhibit is a collaboration between the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts and El Tecolote Newspaper (a free bi-weekly, bilingual neighborhood newspaper) in honor of El Tecolote’s 35th Anniversary.
For more information visit the Center’s website.
top
MásCaras: Masks of Mexico
Through August 27, 2005
The Mexican Museum
Fort Mason Center - Building D
San Francisco, CA
Presenting examples from the Museum’s extensive collection of masks, the exhibition will highlight the unique confluence of Spanish religious plays, African influences brought by the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and the prolific mask traditions of Mexico’s indigenous population. The exhibition will include mixed media masks of wood, clay, animal skin and papier mâché from various parts of Mexico, and will focus on the eastern coast area of Veracruz, western region of Oaxaca and Guerrero, and central states of Michoacán and Puebla.
Admission: Free
Hours: Wednesday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information call (415) 202-9700 or visit the museum’s website.
top
Puppets from Around the World
Through August 28, 2005
Museum of Craft and Folk Art
Fort Mason Center
Landmark Building A
San Francisco, CA
The history of puppet theater spans the world. This selection of more than 50 puppets, drawn from the vast collection of Alan G. Cook, legendary collector and puppeteer, represents puppetry traditions of North America, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe including all of the main categories of puppets — hand puppets, rod puppets, shadow puppets and string puppets or marionettes. In exhibiting these puppets as folk art, viewers can appreciate the artistic and creative talents manifest in their creation.
Admission: $4
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information call (415) 775-0991 or visit the museum’s website.
top
Art of the Indonesian Archipelago
Through August 28, 2005
Mingei International
Balboa Park
El Prado and the Plaza de Panama
San Diego, CA
The exhibit features more than 100 objects from the Museum’s collection including textiles, jewelry, puppets, baskets, beaded objects, ritual dance masks, architectural ornaments, household objects, and ancestor figures and shrines. Since early times, peoples of Indonesia have prized communal well being, respecting and observing life’s passages — fertility, death and renewal. These elements have long been expressed in the art of the peoples of the Archipelago. Temple art, domestic objects, adornment and ritual and ceremonial objects all embody manifold and powerful expressions of life’s passages and cycles.
Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago (17,000 islands spanning 3,200 miles, of which 6,000 are inhabited) with 365 ethnic and tribal groups, has a long tradition of creating, by hand, objects for daily use. A trade destination for millennia, the Archipelago has also absorbed traditions from other cultures, thus enriching its own artistic expressions. Still visible in Javanese textiles are motifs derived from Chinese ceramic and embroidery designs, introduced in the eighth and seventh centuries B. C., while Balinese ikats display designs and techniques brought to Indonesia by Indian settlers and traders in the first century AD. Moslem and European influences arrived in the 10th century and the 16th century respectively. The exhibit also includes intricately fashioned Balinese masks for use in ritual performances of traditional myths, a company of shadow puppets from Java and an ancient stone ceremonial seat from Nias Island.
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Artistry in Wood
Through September 4, 2005
Sonoma County Museum
425 Seventh Street
Santa Rosa, CA
The Sonoma County Museum presents Artistry in Wood, the 17th annual exhibition of the Sonoma County Woodworkers Association (SCWA). The SCWA has supported local wood artisans for over 25 years through promotion, education and appreciation of the arts and skills of the woodworker. Some very skilled woodworkers reside in Northern California and this exhibition captures that regional expertise, emphasizing a dedication to design and detail, as well as a respect and reverence for wood itself.
Artistry in Wood is a juried exhibition, with works evaluated and selected solely on the basis of craftsmanship. An independent panel of judges award Best of Show and several Awards of Excellence. This year’s judges are Michael Cooper, sculptor and educator, Keith Nason, a cabinetmaker and woodworking educator at Laney College in Oakland and Andreas Strieve, owner of Gallery M, Half Moon Bay.
Supported in part by the Sonoma County Woodworker’s Association and the Madrone Chapter of the Audubon Society.
Admission: $5
Museum Hours: Wednesdays through Sundays 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Corridos Sin Fronteras
Through September 5, 2005
San Diego Historical Society Museum – Balboa Park
1649 El Prado
San Diego, CA
Corridos, or Mexican narrative songs, are the centerpiece of the Smithsonian Institution’s traveling exhibition Corridos sin Fronteras (Corridos without Borders), a musical and visual journey that explores the origins of some of the most famous Mexican songs. Corridos sin Fronteras reconstructs the origins of corridos through objects, documents and wardrobes dating back several centuries. In fact, experts say these narratives can be traced to Spain more than a thousand years ago. Corridos can be about anything from love and betrayal to corrupt politicians and drug smuggling.
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: Open daily 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information see the San Diego Historical Society’s website or the Corridos sin Fronteras exhibit website.
top
Beyond the Rainbow: Maguey Textiles of Guatemala
Through September 9, 2005
UC Davis Design Department Museum
145 Walker Hall
UC Davis Campus
Davis, CA
The first fibers woven by the indigenous people of Mesoamerica came from the endemic maguey or agava plant. Still in use today, ancient techniques transform these fibers into rope, bags, cargo nets, tumplines, hammocks, and horse gear. The secrets of these processes were learned from extensive field research in Guatemala, and are the basis for this exhibit. Photos and samples illustrate methods of fiber extraction, spinning, and loom and non-loom construction techniques. Market scenes and product use round out the display. Visitors can follow the strand from past to present, by looking beyond the bright rainbow colors of Mayan clothing, to the natural color of maguey.
Admission: Free
Museum Hours: Monday through Friday 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Sunday 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
The Feast of Straw – Harvest of Hope
Through September 25, 2005
Craft and Folk Art Museum
5814 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90036
The exhibit features mummer costumes (a mummer is someone who goes from door to door during the holidays performing traditional plays) from Ireland, Great Britain, Western and Eastern Europe, including the Wittlesby Bear Costume, and masks from Lithuania, Belarus and the Ukraine, exploring the cultural aspects of celebrations connected to the festivals of agrarian communities.
Admission: $3.50
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Native Voices . . . Honoring the Animals
Through September 30, 2005
The Maidu Interpretive Center & Historic Site
1960 Johnson Ranch Drive
Roseville, CA 95661
The “Native Voices...Honoring the Animals” exhibit presents photographs, audiotapes and videotapes of native people sharing how they honor the animals for providing food, clothing, tools, and regalia.
Admission: $4.00
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m.—4:00 p.m.
For more information call (916) 774-5934.
top
Carnaval in Africa: Photographs of Guinea Bissau
September 7 through October 29, 2005
UCLA Campus
Hilgard and Strathmore Avenues
Los Angeles, CA
The photographs by Doran H. Ross document a West African Carnaval celebration, which in 1987 featured more than 500 newly made pâpier maché masks.
Admission: Free
Museum Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Thursday 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Woven Legacy: A Collection of Dat-so-la-lee Works,
1900-1921
Through October 31, 2005
Marion Steinbach Indian Basket Museum
130 West Lake Blvd.
Tahoe City, CA
The collection comprises an exhibition of 62 miniatures and models, woven for Amy Cohn, from 1900-1921. Dat-so-la-lee (Louisa Keyser) became well known for her talent while creating baskets exclusively for Cohn's Emporium Stores in Carson City, NV and Tahoe City, CA, producing over 100 recorded large and miniature Washoe-style baskets, from 1895-1925. Her creations have since become well known and remain a lasting tribute to the artist. This will be the first time Amy Cohn's personal collection will be on public display. This exhibition will feature baskets, personal items, photographs and educational materials.
Admission: $3
Museum Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
For more information call (530) 583-1762 or visit the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society website.
top
Sueños Realizados: Photographs from the Galería de la Raza Collection
Through November 12, 2005
The Mexican Museum
Fort Mason Center - Building D
San Francisco, CA
During their Silver Anniversary in 1995, Galería de la Raza commissioned a series of photographs by Bay Area photographers, which they then donated to The Mexican Museum. The suite of 40 large gelatin prints features the work of Virginia Benavides, Catalina Govea, Rubén Guzmán, a former master artist in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program, and Antonio Tovar. The exhibition includes personal portraits taken of the Mission District's multicultural residents and documentation of the East Bay's Mexican cultural traditions.
Admission: Free
Hours: Wednesday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Costumes of Kathak: the Classical Dance of North India
Through November 26, 2005
Oakland Asian Cultural Center
388 Ninth Street, Suite. 290
Oakland, CA
This exhibit offers an educational presentation of the traditional costumes of Kathak dance, a classical dance form from North India.
Admission: Free
For more information call (510) 637-0462 or visit the Oakland Asian Cultural Center’s website.
top
Hidden Treasures from the Mexican Collections
Through December 23, 2005
Phoebe A. Hearst Museum of Anthropology
UC Berkeley
103 Kroeber Hall - Bancroft and College Ave.
Berkeley, CA
Tesoros Escondidos presents a selection of objects from Mexico including clothing, textiles, pottery, baskets, gourds, masks, ceremonial objects, toys, and miniatures. Although these pieces have been accumulating since the Hearst Museum's founding in 1901, only a few have ever been exhibited before. A wide range of forms and media is represented, with regional strengths in the central and southern states. While some objects were created self-consciously as tourist and folk arts for sale to outsiders, much of the collection was made for use in daily life. Most of the items were collected in the 1950s and 1960s, but some pieces date as far back as the seventeenth century.
Admission: $4
Museum Hours: Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Behind the Altar: Retablos
September 22 – December 31, 2005
Craft and Folk Art Museum
5814 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA
Retablos, better known as laminas in Mexico, are small oil paintings on tin, zinc, wood or copper which were used in home alters to venerate Catholic saints. This genre of folk art, deeply rooted in Spanish history, represents traditional religious beliefs in 17th, 18th, and 19th century Mexican culture. Colorful, spiritual, symbolic, allegorical, and historical are just a few of the words that best describe the unique art form .
Admission: $5
Museum Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 11am - 5pm
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
The Art of the Japanese Doll
Through January 8, 2006
Mingei International
Balboa Park
El Prado and the Plaza de Panama
San Diego, CA
The exhibition focuses on six categories of ningyo — gosho ningyo (palace dolls), hina ningyo (Girls' Day dolls), musha ningyo (Boys' Day dolls), isho ningyo (dolls of fashion and popular culture), karakuri ningyo (theater dolls, some of which are mechanical) and dolls relating to health. Carved from wood, the dolls are clothed in elegant, often elaborate, costumes with heads, hands and bodies that have the appearance of white porcelain, an effect achieved by application to the wooden base of gofun, a white pigment made from crushed clam and oyster shells and glue. Of special note is a four and one-half foot, uncostumed Bunraku puppet, a beautiful example of the mechanics of its art.
Guest Curator Alan Pate notes, “No other country in the world can boast as long-lived, vibrant and diverse a doll tradition as Japan. The doll in Japan holds layers of meaning and symbolism that anchor it more deeply in Japanese culture than its Western equivalent."
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Big Drum: Taiko in the United States
Through January 8, 2006
Japanese American National Museum
369 East First Street
Los Angeles, California
With its thunderous rhythms and energetic movements, taiko is a powerful and popular style of group drumming. In Japanese, the word taiko translates to "big drum" or "fat drum". While drumming has always been a part of Japanese and Japanese American culture, it was not until the latter part of the twentieth century that taiko evolved into the ensemble form practiced and performed today. The pioneering American taiko groups were formed in California during the social and political tumult of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Today, there are hundreds of groups throughout North America and Hawai'i.
Big Drum: Taiko in the United States is the first major museum exhibition about taiko in America. Through media arts pieces, artifacts, photographs, and artwork, the exhibition explores how the development of taiko in this country reflects the resilience of cultural traditions, the historical journeys of Japanese Americans, and the cultivation of new diverse communities.
Admission: $8
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Thursday evening until 8:00 p.m.
Visit the museum’s website to learn about a series of Taiko Concerts which complement the exhibit.
top
Shadows, Masks, and Music: Aspects of the Performing Arts in Asia
Through January 22, 2006
Asian Art Museum
Tateuchi Thematic Gallery
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
The worlds of the performing arts and the visual arts intersect in numerous ways. Musical instruments, set designs, costumes, and masks, while intended to accent performances, have also been valued as aesthetic objects in their own right. This exhibit explores this connection featuring a selection of more than 50 instruments, masks, and other items that were used in various Asian theatrical, dance or musical performances. It also draws from the museum’s collection of painted and sculptural works that depict such objects or performances.
Admission: $10
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with extended hours every Thursday until 9:00 p.m.
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Rustic Splendors: Kiln Treasures From Shiwan
August 26, 2005 - March, 2006
Pacific Heritage Museum
608 Commercial Street
San Francisco, CA
The Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco and the Pacific Heritage Museum will cosponsor Rustic Splendors: Kiln Treasures from Shiwan. This exhibit of Chinese ceramics will feature one hundred forty one pieces, on loan from nineteen Bay Area collectors, ranging from the Ming Dynasty (AD 1368-1644) to the present.
For more information call the Chinese Culture Center at (415) 986-1822 or visit the center’s website.
top
Passage to Panama: Past to Present
August 20, 2005 through March 26, 2006
San Diego Museum of Man
Balboa Park
1350 El Prado
San Diego, CA
Curated by Grace Johnson, Passage to Panama: Past to Present is based on the research, collections, and photographs of William and Evelyn Phillips taken in the 1950s. This exhibit describes the lives and culture of the Guaymí peoples of the mountains of Chiriquí and Veraguas and the Chocó peoples of the Darién in the 1950s.
The Chocó, currently known as the Wounaan/Embera people, live along the rivers in the Darién region of Panama. This exhibit centers on their environment and their daily life, including rituals and healing. The Museum's collection of baskets highlights Chocó culture, which is further detailed through displays of wooden bowls, hunting and fishing implements, traditional dress and jewelry, and carved wooden staffs.
The lives of the Guaymí, presently known as the Ngöbe, are recounted through their daily lives by looking closely at objects they use in their households, such as gourds and woven hats, as well as musical instruments associated with the balsaría ceremony. The exhibit also looks at how these indigenous groups are affected by other cultures by considering their art and economy, and examining the wide range of contemporary baskets, jewelry, and woodcarvings made for sale.
Photographs taken by Dr. Julie Velasquez-Runk and Dr. Philip Young between 1997 and 2004 give a sense of the current life of indigenous peoples of the Darién. Contemporary photographs of Panama and historic and contemporary images of the Panama Canal illustrate life in Panama as it is today.
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
The Art of Being Kuna: Layers of Meaning Among the Kuna of Panama
August 20, 2005 through May 14, 2006
San Diego Museum of Man
Balboa Park
1350 El Prado
San Diego, CA
The Art of Being Kuna: Layers of Meaning Among the Kuna of Panama, opening the weekend of August 20, is a major traveling exhibition that presents a view of the Kuna culture as seen through its expressive arts: the Kuna's central concern for form and beauty in everyday life, narratives, rituals, healing, and visual arts such as Kuna women's molas (textiles). The Kuna people live on the San Blas islands and Atlantic coastline of Panama. The exhibit showcases Kuna culture through a wide range of objects including baskets, wooden objects, molas, and gold jewelry. Large-scale photo panels with supportive descriptive panels and visual documentation, depicted in an environment suggestive of a Kuna village and video stations add depth to the presentation.
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
August
Toi Māori – Art from the Māori People of New Zealand
August 4 – 12, 2005
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Gallery
701 Mission Street at 3rd Street
San Francisco, CA
This exhibit features contemporary Māori art and culture from New Zealand including The Eternal Thread exhibit, a collection of traditional and contemporary Māori cloaks, Ta Moko (body tattooing), sculpture and clay works, jewelry, as well as weavers and tattooists at work.
Exhibiting artists and weavers from Te Roopu Raranga Whatu o Aotearoa will accompany the exhibition to give talks and demonstrations of weaving at each venue.
The exhibition contains over 90 works, and was developed by Pataka Museum of Arts And Cultures, Porirua, New Zealand, in partnership with Toi Māori Aotearoa - Māori Arts New Zealand and Te Roopu Raranga Whatu o Aotearoa - the national collective of Māori weavers.
On August 4, 5, 6, 9, and 10, Te Puia Kapa Haka Māori Dance Ensemble will perform traditional Kapa Haka, the Māori art of telling stories through song, dance, expression and movement, at Yerba Buena Gardens from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. On August 6, the Ensemble will be joined by Native American dancers in a dance exchange. On August 7 the Te Puia Kapa Haka Māori Dance Ensemble will perform on the Union Square main stage at 2:00 p.m.
Admission: Free
Exhibit Hours: August 5, 2005 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.; August 6, 2005 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; August 7, 2005 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; August 8, 2005 closed; August 9 – 10 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; August 11 – 13 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; August 14, 2005 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information visit the Bay Area Indian Calendar or the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Gallery website.
top
Tibetan Appliqué Demonstrations
August 4 – 28, 2005
12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Asian Art Museum – Samsung Hall
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
Husband and wife artists Tsering Penjor Bajracharya and Asha Devi Shakya team up to create Tibetan-style sacred images using fabric appliqué. Penjor creates the design based on his years of religious art training while Asha, an appliqué artist, implements the fine details of the image. Participants can make their own artwork inspired by the special exhibition Tibet: Treasures from the Roof of the World and learn more about Tibet from videos and books .
Admission: Free with museum admission of $10
For more information visit the Asian Art Museum’s website.
top
International Dance Festival
August 5, 2005 - 6:00 p.m.
August 19, 2005 - 6:00 p.m.
August 26, 2005 - 6:00 p.m.
City Heights Performance Annex
3795 Fairmount Ave.
San Diego, CA
On August 5, Ballet Folklorico Jaliscience & Quetzal and Sharanya Mukhopadhyay, a former apprentice in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program, of Odissi Dance Circle will perform at this muli-cultural event. On August 19, Tango Alma will perform dances from Argentina and Raks el Anwar will perform dances from the Middle East. On August 26, Ni Wayan Ekarini will perform dances from Bali.
Admission: Free
For more information call (619) 641-6123 or visit the San Diego Dance Alliance’s website.
top
Rangoli Dance Company
August 6, 2005, 10:00 a.m.
John Anson Ford Theatre
2580 Cahuenga Blvd., East
Hollywood, CA
Malathi Iyengar, a participant in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program, and the Rangoli Dance Company will perform a dance called Punyakoti, which depicts the story of a cow.
Admission: $5 for adults; Free for children
For more information or to purchase tickets visit the Ford Amphitheatre’s website or call the Ford Box office at 323-461-3673.
top
8th Annual California Turkish Arts and Culture Festival
August 6 – 7, 2005
11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Monterey Custom House Plaza
Monterey, CA
The Turkish American Association of California is producing a celebration of Turkish culture and arts including live music, folk dances, folk dance workshops, belly dancing, crafts, food, and activities for children.
For more information visit the association’s website.
top
Annual Scottish Games and Celtic Festival
August 6 - 7, 2005
Toro Park
501 Highway 68
Salinas, CA
The Festival features many traditional Scottish activities including pipe band performances, Irish step dancing, and Scottish athletic competitions including the Caber Toss. Featured performers include John Taylor and Hamewith, the Wicked Tinkers, and the Barnes Academy of Irish Dancing.
Admission: $16 for one day; $20 for two days
For more information see the Festival’s website.
top
21st Philippine Cultural Arts Festival
August 6 -7, 2005
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Balboa Park
Park Blvd. & President’s Way
San Diego, CA
This event features Philippine traditional dances, kulintang and rondalla music with featured performers SAMAHAN Philippine Dance Company. The festival also includes a talent show and singing contest, traditional costumes and Terno fashion review, a martial arts show, arts and crafts and Filipino food.
Admission: Free
For more information call (619) 444-7528 or visit the festival’s website.
top
11th Annual San Francisco Aloha Festival
August 6 – 7, 2005
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Presidio Main Parade Grounds
Lincoln Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
The Pacific Islanders of the San Francisco Bay Area offer their talents in music and dance during this two-day festival of the arts. Performance highlights include Pacific Islander music as well as Polynesian dance. Hālau 'o Keikiali'i is one of the featured performers. The festival will also include arts & crafts vendors, island cuisine, educational exhibits and workshops, and an "Ohana Korner” with simple games for kids.
For more information visit the Festival’s website.
top
The Klezmer Feast
August 7, 2005, 7:00 p.m.
McCabes Guitar Shop
3101 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA
A night of Jewish Klezmer music featuring Extreme Klezmer Makeover and Bucovina Klezmer.
Admission: $15
For more information call (310) 828-4497.
top
American Roots Music Festival
August 7, 2005
2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Skirball Cultural Center
Skirball Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA
This daylong festival celebrates the cultural and historical diversity of the music of North America and features outstanding live performances, musical workshops, and hands-on family art projects. Featured performers include Richard Greene and the Brothers Barton with Jeff Pekarek (bluegrass), The Holmes Brothers (gospel/blues/soul), and Geno Delafose and the French Rockin’ Boogie (zydeco).
Admission: $15
For more information visit the Skirball Center’s website.
top
Aarohi – Avarohi
August 7, 2005, 6:00 p.m.
Rangoli Space
14802 Huston Street
Sherman Oaks, CA
As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations the Rangoli Foundation presents Aarohi – Avarohi, a series of arts events in an intimate setting. This concert features Indian classical vocal and flute music with Veeraraghavan S. R., Sarvothama A.P., Sankara Subramanian, and Gurumurthy G. The performance is followed by a discussion with the artists. There is only floor seating available and prior reservation is recommended.
Admission: $12
For more information call (818) 788-4154 or visit the Rangoli Foundation’s website.
top
Music of Celts, Caravans, and Constantinople
August 9, 2005 - 7:30 p.m.
Starlight Patio Theatre
Benito Street & Fremont Avenue
Montclair, CA
This free summer concert features the Koroyar Folk Ensemble of Los Angeles playing authentic traditional music from six different Eastern European and Near Eastern countries. The program will be highlighted by several melodies in uneven or asymmetric rhythms, such as 11/16, and in unusual scales. Also, the folk string instrument tambura, the hand drum dumbeg, and the large double-headed drum tupan will be very prominent.
For additional information, call Richard Unciano at (909) 986-4321.
top
Viajem
August 11, 2005, 8:00 p.m.
Skirball Cultural Center
Skirball Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA
Sevillan Marta Santamaria takes the stage with her ensemble Viajem, led by Brazilian bassist and arranger Antonio de Sant'anna. The ensemble performs flamenco, sevillanas, boleros, Spanish songs, Brazilian bossa nova, and samba.
Admission: Free
For more information visit the Center’s website.
top
Mariachi Divas
August 11, 2005 – Los Angeles
August 26, 2005 – Hollywood
The all-female Mariachi Divas play traditional mariachi spiced with drums, percussion and flute incorporating the sounds of cumbia, salsa, merengue, and cha cha.
August 11, 2005, 6:00 p.m.
Museum of the American West
Griffith Park
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA
Admission: $5
For more information visit the Museum’s website.
August 26, 2005, 8:00 p.m.
John Anson Ford Theatre
2580 Cahuenga Blvd., East
Hollywood, CA
Admission: $16 – 30; $12 for children
For more information or to purchase tickets visit the Ford Amphitheatre’s website or call the Ford Box office at 323-461-3673.
top
Essence: Koto, Taiko, and Shakuhachi
August 12, 2005, 8:00 p.m.
Old First Church
1751 Sacramento St.
San Francisco, CA
"Essence" is a collaboration between Koto artist Michiyo Koga, Taiko masters Kenny Endo and Jimi Nakagawa, and the master Shakuhachi player Masayuki Koga. A unique combination of taiko and shakuhachi instruments was performed between Kenny Endo and Masayuki Koga at the Zellaback Hall in Berkeley, California in 1995. The collaboration project of two players of Masayui and Kenny, was funded by the Rockefeller Foundation in 1998. In the same year Michiyo, koto player, joined and they named the group "Essence."
Admission: $15
For more information visit the Japanese Music Institute of America’s website.
top
Divine Rhythms
August 12, 2005 – 7:00 p.m.
Norton Simon Museum
411 West Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA
Malathi Iyengar, a master artist in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program, will perform with the Rangoli Dance Company and guests from India. The performance features both Bharata Natyam and Kathak dance accompanied by live music.
Admission: Free with museum admission of $8
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Yuval Ron Ensemble
August 13, 2005 – 8:00 p.m.
Bahai Center
5755 Rodeo Rd.
Los Angeles, CA
Yuval Ron Ensemble will perform mystical Middle Eastern music with guest singer Najwa Gibram, guest guitarist Carlos Velasco and guest dancers We Are Baladi Dance Theatre. After the concert food and drinks will be served to celebrate the release of the Ensemble’s new CD, Tree of Life.
Admission: $25
For more information call (818) 505-1355 or visit the Ensemble’s website.
top
Tulasi: Sacred Plant of India
August 13, 2005 – 7:00 p.m.
California Center for the Arts
340 North Escondido Blvd.
Escondido, CA
Presented by the Federation of Indian Associations in celebration of India’s Independence, this event features Malathi Iyengar, a master artist in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program, with the Rangoli Dance Company and guest artists from India. The evening includes Kathak and folk dances by Murali Mohan K. from India.
Admission: $20
For mare information visit the Rangoli Foundation’s website.
top
The Second Annual Dragonfly Gala
August 13, 2005
4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Morongo Community Center
13000 Fields Rd.
Morongo Reservation, CA
The Gala will feature use of native plants by Southern California Indian cultures. There will be displays of plants and their uses in basketry, making musical instruments, medicine, food and more. The dinner will feature foods of native Southern California cultures. Participants can taste acorn, yucca blossoms, mesquite cookies, venison stew, sycamore and elderberry teas and much more. There will also be flute music, bird singing and dancing and the presentation of the second annual Dragonfly Award for high-soaring achievements in saving and sharing Southern California Indian cultures.
To support Dorothy Ramon Learning Center programs and Ushkana Press publications, the gala will also feature a silent auction with art, jewelry, baskets, and more. All proceeds from this event will go toward the mission of Dorothy Ramon Learning Center, Inc., and its publishing arm, Ushkana Press, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving and sharing Southern California’s Indian cultures, languages, history, and arts, an endangered component of our national heritage.
Admission: $30
For more information visit the Kumeyaay Nation’s website.
top
Workshop on Southern California Indian Basketry
August 13, 2005
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cabazon Cultural Museum
84-245 Indio Springs Parkway
Indio, CA
This one-day workshop, taught by Lorene Sisquoc (Mountain Cahuilla/Fort Sill Apache), introduces participants to the materials and techniques used in Southern California Indian basketry. Participants gain an appreciation for the art of basket weaving and have the opportunity to complete a basket.
Fee: $75
For more information visit UC Riverside Extension’s website.
top
Pistahan – Filipino American Arts Exposition
August 13, 2005
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Yerba Buena Gardens
760 Howard Street
San Francisco, CA
Yerba Buena Gardens hosts this 12th annual Filipino festival of arts, culture and cuisine, including displays, crafts, entertainment and food.
Admission: Free
For more information visit the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival website.
top
32nd Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair
August 13 – 14, 2005
11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Japantown
Post Street between Laguna and Fillmore
San Francisco, CA
The Nihonmachi Street Fair features Asian Pacific American foods, artisans, children’s activities, nonprofit information tables, musicians and dancers. Taiko Dojo and Gen Taiko, a participant in ACTA’s Traditional Arts Development Program, will be featured performers.
For more information visit the Fair’s website.
top
Tibetan Music and Dance Lecture Demonstration
August 18, 2005 – 7:00 p.m.
Asian Art Museum – Samsung Hall
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
This event features traditional Tibetan lama dances, chanting, and flute music.
Admission: Free with museum admission of $10
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Warsaw Village Band
August 18, 2005, 8:00 p.m.
Skirball Cultural Center
Skirball Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA
Warsaw Village Band was founded in 1997 by six young Polish musicians who play violin, suka (Polish fiddle), cello, and traditional polish drums. Their repertoire consists of Polish roots music including folk dance melodies, haunting ballads, and rural songs.
Admission: Free
For more information visit the Center’s website.
top
San Francisco International Music Series
August 20, 2004
12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Yerba Buena Gardens
760 Howard Street
San Francisco, CA
Melody of China performs Chinese classical, folk, and contemporary music. Hong Wang will talk about the musical synergy created from the synthesis of an ancient cultural tradition and the youthful, diverse American culture. Players include multi-instrumentalist Hong Wang, yangqin (Chinese hammered dulcimer) virtuoso Yangquin Zhao, Lu Xian, a master artist in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program, on dizi (Chinese bamboo flutes), Gangqin Zhao on guzheng (table harp), Zhang Yu on suona (double reeds), Wanpen Guo on sheng (mouth organ), and Wang Wei, also a master artist in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program on percussion.
For more information see Melody of China’s website.
top
Conga Masters
August 20, 2005, 8:00 p.m.
Grand Performances
California Plaza
350 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA
This concert features three Conga masters: Carlos “Patato” Valdez, Francisco Aguabella, and Milton Cardonas. Conga (or tumbadora) originated as a musical instrument in 19th century Cuba and was part of Havana’s inner-city parties called rumbas.
Admission: Free
For more information see the Grand Performances website.
top
Irish Step Dancing
August 21, 2005, 3:00 p.m.
Fowler Museum of Cultural History
UCLA Campus
Los Angeles, CA
Máire Clerkin will perform jigs, reels and other kinds of Irish step dances.
Admission: Free
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Johnny Polanco
August 25, 2005
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Museum of the American West
Griffith Park
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA
Bandleader Johnny Polanco and Conjunto Amistad will perform salsa music at the Autry’s outdoor plaza on the closing evening of the Sizzling Summer Nights series. The event includes a free dance lesson and visit to the museum. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Admission: $5
For more information visit the Museum's website.
top
Yasmin Levy
August 25, 2005, 8:00 p.m.
Skirball Cultural Center
Skirball Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA
Yasmin Levy, born in Jerusalem, will sing romantic songs from the Ladino (Judeo-Spanish) heritage.
Admission: Free
For more information visit the Center’s website.
top
Welsh, Scottish & Irish Folk Music
August 25, 2005 – 8:00 p.m.
Old First Church
1725 Sacramento Street
San Francisco, CA
This concert features traditional vocal and instrumental music from Wales, Scotland and Ireland complete with explanations of historical context. Featured performers include Maureen Brennan (harp), Will Connolly (baritone), Sue Draheim (fiddle), Jane Hammett (soprano), and Baker Peeples (piano).
Admission: $15
For more information visit the Old First Church website.
top
Hsiao Hsi Yuan Puppet Theater
August 26, 2005 - 12:00 p.m.
August 27, 2005 - 8:000 p.m.
August 28, 2005 - 12:00 p.m.
Grand Performances
California Plaza
350 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA
The Hsiao Hsi Yuan Puppet Theater presents Chuanchow-style wooden puppets performing to traditional peikun music. The hand puppets, dressed in elaborate costumes, perform using Peking Opera mannerisms and singing styles.
For more information visit the Grand Performance’s website.
top
Oakland Chinatown StreetFest
August 27 – 28, 2005
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Oakland Chinatown
7th to 11th Street and Broadway to Harrison Street
Oakland, CA
The StreetFest will feature Asian foods, demonstrations by crafts artists, and music and dance ensembles. Craft demonstrations include Korean knot-tying, Korean origami, and Indian Henna tattooing. Featured performers include White Crane Lion Dance, Wadaiko Taiko, and Kariktan Dance Academy.
For more information visit the StreetFest’s website.
top
Korean Dance Festival
August 27, 2005, 8:30 p.m.
John Anson Ford Theatre
2580 Cahuenga Blvd., East
Hollywood, CA
Ten companies and solo artists from the U.S. and Asia, including Korean National Treasures, gather to display the full range of this folk tradition. This event is presented by Jung Im Lee Korean Dance Academy.
Admsision: $16 – 40
For more information or to purchase tickets visit the Ford Amphitheatre’s website or call the Ford Box office at 323-461-3673.
top
The California Cowboy
August 28, 2005
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Museum of the American West
Griffith Park
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA
The Southern California Chapter of the Western Music Association presents a musical salute to the California cowboy, starring Dave Stamey, Justus and the Montanas, and others.
Admission: $20
For reservations call (818) 725-2996. For more information visit the Museum’s website.
top
September
E Hula Mau
September 2 – 4, 2005
Terrace Theater
Long Beach Performing Arts Center
300 East Ocean Boulevard
Long Beach, California
E Hula Mai is Southern California’s only Hula and Chant competition, produced by Na Mamo, a Southern California non-profit organization. In addition to being a competition the event also offers cultural workshops, jam sessions, food, arts and crafts, and concerts by award-winning performers.
For more information visit Na Mamo’s website.
top
Art & Soul
September 3 – 5, 2005
Downtown Oakland
Oakland, CA
The 5th Annual Art & Soul features artisan booths, international foods, and live music including gospel and blues performances. The Blues Stage, presented by the Bay Area Blues Society, features Henry Clemente, Ron Joseph, Zydeco Flames, Motor Dude Zydeco, Hurricane Sam, Caravan of Allstars with Pork Pie Phillips & Teddy ‘Bluesmaster’ Watson, Ron Thompson, Sonny Rhodes, Caravan of Allstars with
Wylie Trass & Willie G, The Ballads, Passions, Freddie Hughes, the Brummelles, Terrible Tom, Wylie Trass, Billy Dunn, and more.
For more information visit the Art & Soul website.
top
Chinese Muslim Calligraphy
September 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18
12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Asian Art Museum – Samsung Hall
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
Master calligrapher Haji Noor Deen Mi Guangjiang will demonstrate Arabic calligraphy from China. Haji Noor Deen's sacred art interweaves Islamic characters and writing style with Chinese style brushwork
Admission: Free with museum admission of $10
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Tet Trung Thu: Mid Autumn Children’s Festival
September 10, 2005
4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Oakland Museum of California
1000 Oak Street
Oakland, CA
The Houng Viet Community Center co-hosts this traditional Vietnamese full moon family festival. Children can learn to make Moon Festival Lanterns, watch lion dances, traditional Vietnamese dances, singing and skits, and view a Parade of Moon Festival Lanterns.
Admission: Free
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
16th Annual Polish Festival
September 10, 2005
12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Polish American Hall
327 Main Street
Roseville, CA 95678
The Polish community will gather at the Polish American Club of Greater Sacramento to celebrate their culture. There will be Polish music, dancing and samples of Polish food and beer. There will also be carnival games and crafts for children, and a raffle with many chances to win. Lowiczanie Polish Folk Dance Ensemble will perform Polish suites.
Admission: Free
For more information call (916) 782-7171 or (916) 725-8704.
top
A Concert for Prayer and Healing
September 11, 2004
Herrick Chapel
Occidental College
Los Angeles, CA
Brothers Ritesh and Rajnish Mishra will perform classical North Indian vocal music with their father and uncle Rajan and Sajan Mishra. The two sets of brothers carry on the musical traditions of the city of Banares passed from generation to generation. They are accompanied by tabla player Kumar Bose.
Admission: $25
For more information visit the Music Circle’s website.
top
Melody of China with Gene Coleman and Wei Wu
September 12, 2005 – 7:30 p.m.
Old First Church
1725 Sacramento Street
San Francisco, CA
This concert is a new concept music performance, the musician/producer and Director of Sound Field Festival (Chicago) Gene Coleman, sheng master Wei Wu, master morinkhuur player Li Bo (Japan), and composer Carl Stone on computer, will be incorporated with the musicians of Melody of China, Yangqin Zhao on yangqin (hammered dulcimer), and Hong Wang on multi-instruments (guanzi, erhu, morinkhuur etc.).
Admission: $15
For more information visit Melody of China’s website.
top
The 2005 Tamburitza Extravaganza
September 15 – 18, 2005
Los Angeles Airport Marriott Hotel
5855 West Century Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA
The Tamburitza Association of America presents the Tamburitza Extravaganza featuring Kolo dance (Croatian circle dance) instruction, a Hall of Fame Banquet, and concerts by 25 Tamburitza ensembles including: Jerry Grcevich Orchestra, Slavonian Traveling Band, Tamburaski Orkestar Momci, OtrovNovi Stari Tamburasi and Dalmacijo Singers, The Continental Strings of Cleveland, Becari Adriatic, Braca Veseli Tamburitzans, Jedinstvo Tamburica Orchestra, Orkestar Zabava Tomicic Brothers Orchestra, Sarena Los Angeles Tamburitza Orchestra, Sviraj Prazna Flasa Yeseta Brothers Tamburica Orchestra, Dunav of Chicago Trubaduri, Boduli T-Rroma Sinovi of Chicago, Radost Tamburitza Orchestra (Pittsburgh), Sinovi of Seattle, and Orkestar Junaci.
Admission: $115 for all events, or tickets to concerts and workshops are sold separately
For more information visit the Extravaganza’s website.
top
Mariachi Divas
September 16, 2005, 12:00 p.m.
Grand Performances
California Plaza
350 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA
Founded in 1999, this all-female ensemble is an amalgam of talents from Mexico, Cuba, Samoa, Central America, Japan and Europe. Rooted in traditional mariachi style, the addition of congas, timbales, bongos, cajón and tambora gives the group a distinctive sound .
For more information visit the Grand Performance’s website.
top
Bluegrass in the Foothills
September 16 – 18, 2005
Amador County Fairgrounds
Sherwood & School Streets
Plymouth, CA
The Bluegrass Music Festival features three full days of world class bluegrass music in the heart of the Gold Country of the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Fifteen nationally known bands will perform including: Lost & Found, James King Band, Nothin' Fancy, Bluegrass Brothers, Michele Nixon & Drive and many more.
For more information call (209) 785-4693 or visit Land Promotions’ website.
top
Millpond Music Festival
September 16 - 18, 2005
Millpond County Park
Sawmill Road
Bishop, CA
The Festival brings an eclectic collection of traditional music that crosses cultural lines in a celebration of diversity. Some of the featured performers include: Fiddlin’ Pete, Derik and Charlie, Sarah Lee Guthrie & Johnny Irion, and Mamadou Diabate & Walter Strauss.
Admission: $35 for one day pass; $70 for three day pass
For more information visit the Festival’s website.
top
The 8th Annual E Pili Kakou I Ho`okahi Lahui
September 16-18, 2005
Double Tree Hotel
2001 Point West Way
Sacramento, CA 95815
For eight years, E Pili Kakou I Ho'okahi Lahui has been dedicated to its mission to join together as one body of people, from all corners of the world and all of Hawai'i Nei, to promote, share, and perpetuate Hawai'i's rich culture and heritage by sustaining and further educating all who are practitioners and enthusiasts of the hula. Each year, kumu hula and kupuna from throughout Hawai'i are invited to pass on their teachings. These individuals are devoted to ensuring that the art of hula will be passed on from generation to generation with accuracy, integrity, and with great love for the culture and its people. This year, workshops are offered in hula kahiko, hula ‘auana, ka wakahiko, instrument making, and feather work.
To register, or for more information, visit E Pili Kakou I Ho'okahi Lahui ‘s website or call (916) 419-3374.
top
World Festival of Sacred Music
September 17 – October 2, 2005
Various Los Angeles region venues
The World Festival of Sacred Music offers forty-three events over sixteen days in venues across the Los Angeles region from the Throat singers of Tuva, Siberia to music from the Czech Republic, Korea, Thailand, Mexico, and the diversity of Los Angeles artists. Some of the featured performers include the Lian Ensemble on September 24th, who participated in ACTA’s Traditional Arts Development Program in 2003. Ensemble members Mahshid Mirzadeh and Pirayeh Pourafar were participants in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program and Houman Pourmedhi was a mentor with ACTA’s Folk and Traditional Arts Mentorship Initiative. Malathi Iyengar, a master artist in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program, and the Rangoli Dance Ensemble will perform on September 25th.
For more information visit the Festival’s website.
top
11th Annual Arab Cultural Festival
September 18, 2005
San Francisco County Fair Building
Golden Gate Park
9th & Lincoln
San Francisco, CA
The 11th Annual Arab Cultural Festival hosted by the Arab Cultural and Community Center, features Arabic music, dance, food, and a unique arts & crafts bazaar. The festival will be held in the San Francisco County Fair Building in Golden Gate Park. The Arab Cultural and Community Center is a participant in ACTA’s Folk and Traditional Arts Mentorship Initiative.
For more information call (415) 664-2200 or visit the center’s website.
top
Lian Ensemble & Shahrokh Meshkin Ghalam
September 18, 2005, 7:30 p.m.
Wilshire Ebell Theatre
4401 West 8th Street
Los Angeles, CA
Based in Los Angeles, The Lian Ensemble is a group of virtuoso performers and composers who perform mystical Persian music. The Lian Ensemble participated in ACTA’s Traditional Arts Development Program in 2003. Ensemble members Mahshid Mirzadeh and Pirayeh Pourafar were participants in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program and Houman Pourmedhi was a mentor with ACTA’s Folk and Traditional Arts Mentorship Initiative. The will perform with Shahrokh Meshkin Ghalam and the Nakissa Dance Company.
Admission: $25 – $100
To purchase tickets call the Music Box (310) 473-3466 or Lian Records (310) 477-8617. For more information visit the Lian Ensemble’s website.
top
Chinese Moon Festival Concert
September 18, 2005
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Music Recital Hall
Sacramento State Campus
Sacramento, CA
The Sacramento Chinese Culture Foundation presents the Chinese Moon Festival concert featuring the musicians of Melody of China. They will perform traditional Chinese music and contemporary works by well-known Chinese American composers.
Admission: $15
For more information visit Melody of China’s website.
top
Native American Day
September 23, 2005
1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
219 S. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA
To commemorate the strength and sacrifice of Native American people throughout the history of the Golden State, California has declared the fourth Friday in the month of September as Native American Day. The public is invited to celebrate this joyous occasion with the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. The event will feature a Native American artist exhibit, Cahuilla cultural display, information, handouts, and refreshments.
Admission: Free
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
Sogetsu ArtScapes – Japanese Flower Arranging
September 23 - 25, 2005
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Yerba Buena Gardens
760 Howard Street
San Francisco , CA
This outdoor exhibition features Ikebana, the art of Japanese flower arranging, which is one of Japan's most popular traditional arts.
For more information visit the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival website.
top
Latino Heritage Month Programs
September 24, 2005
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
California Academy of Sciences
875 Howard Street
San Francisco, CA
Mexican Migajón (10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Main Floor):
Migajón is the Mexican folk art of miniature flowers fashioned from bread dough. With the appearance of fine porcelain, these life-life decorations are used for wedding bouquets, for azahares (orange blossoms worn by the bride to denote purity) and for lazo (a rosary-type creation that is placed around the bride and groom during the ceremony to symbolize their union of love). Eva Dias demonstrates this art using white bread crumbs, glue, glycerin, and acrylic paints .
Mexican Serenades (1:00 p.m., Academy classroom):
El Trio del Puerto serenades the audience with musica romantica - Mexican songs of love and nostalgia for the homeland. Performing on guitars, the Trio includes regional songs from throughout Mexico.
Bolivian Music (2:30 p.m., Academy classroom):
The Oscar Reynolds Trio performs in both modern and traditional Bolivian music. Oscar is a composer who interprets Bolivian music while moving in new directions. Performing on antara (pan pipes) and guitar, Oscar is joined by Jose Luis Reynolds on charango (a small stringed instrument) and Lalo Izqiuerdo, a former master in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program on cajón (a box-shaped drum).
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
13th Annual Thai Cultural Day
September 25, 2005
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Barnsdall Art Park
4800 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA
Presented by the Thai Community & Cultural Arts Center, the one-day festival features activities such as Thai dancing and other performing arts, a Thai traditional painting workshop, and a children's workshop. This event was made possible in part by a Grant from the City of Los Angeles.
For more information visit the Arts Center’s website.
top
An Open Door to China
September 25, 2005 – 2:00 p.m.
Oakland Asian Cultural Center
388 Ninth Street, Suite 290
Oakland, CA
This performance displays the dances and costumes of many different minorities of China such as Han, Xin Jang, Mongolia, Tibetan, Dai, Li, and many more.
Admission: $6
For more information visit the center’s website.
top
The Sixth Annual San Francisco World Music Festival
September 26 – October 16, 2005
Various San Francisco Bay Area Locations
The San Francisco World Music Festival 2005 will celebrate its Sixth Anniversary with a gathering of musicians from around the world. The centerpiece of Festival 2005 is a specially commissioned world premiere work called Nowruz Project, which will premiere on October 2 as an international music experiment and artistic statement for global peace. This evening will present traditional and newly composed music, poetry, and film, featuring Azerbaijani pianist Chingiz Sadykhov, Azerbaijani kamancheh soloist Imamyar Hasanov, Afghani dutar and rubab player Aziz Herawi, Persian ney master Hossein Omoumi, tombak player Pejman Hadadi, Persian tar player Ashkan Ghafouri, Kurdish vocalist Ozden Oztoprak, and composer and lyra master Ross Daly; Kurdish filmmaker Nizamettin Aric; and Kurdish community leader and poet/singer Mustafa Kart. All of these artists represent a variety of traditions, nationalities, ethnicities and disciplines. The binding thread in bringing them together is the observance of the vernal equinox or Nowruz, whose pre-Islamic origins are embraced in different ways throughout the Caucasus, Middle East and Central Asia.
Another featured Festival event is a Chinese & World Percussion concert on October 15, with Master Wang Wei, a participant in ACTA’s Apprenticeship Program.
For more information and a detailed schedule of events visit the festival’s website.
top
October
Kazakh: Art of Storytelling and Culture
October 1, 2, 15, 16
12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Asian Art Museum – Samsung Hall
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
This event features poetic storytelling and music of the Kazakhs, the last nomads of modern Central Asia.
Admission: Free with museum admission of $10
For more information visit the museum’s website.
top
County & Regional Calendars
A calendar of Festivals and Celebrations in San Diego is available from the San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.
Let us know if you have special information that should be posted here.
To update information or submit an event for the calendar,
please email ACTA.
top
