To update information or submit an event, email ACTA.
Contemporary and Historic Expressions of Native Peoples Exhibit
Through October 27, 2006
Marin Community Foundation
5 Hamilton Landing
Novato, CA
Meaning, beauty, feeling, and spirit can be expressed
with a look, a dance, a painting, or an artifact. Defined as anything made
by human skill or work, new artifacts can honor old ones and keep a
culture alive. Both are expressions of that culture. Selected
artifacts by artists from the past, Scott Ridgway’s photographic
images of American Indians within the context of their culture today,
and works by contemporary California Indian artists reflect a living
culture, provide insight into the past, and give inspiration for the
future.
For more information visit
the Marin Indian Museum’s website.
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Symbols of Identity
Through October 29, 2006
Mingei International Museum
Balboa Park
El Prado and the Plaza de Panama
San Diego, CA
The exhibition is composed of
examples of adornment from cultures in North and South America, Africa,
Asia, and Europe fashioned from silver, gold, enamel, gems, beads, wood,
shells, ivory, and bone. Always
intended to be beautiful and valuable, jewelry can have other meanings
as well. It often identifies its wearer's culture, beliefs, religion
or station in life. Magnificent silver crowns and torques from
Guizhou, China, Yemeni necklaces, bracelets and earrings, Norwegian agnus
dei pendants, and a multi-strand necklace from the Samburu culture
of Kenya all indicate a woman's marital status. Yemeni amulet
cases and a Mexican milagro necklace are protective charms. An
Omani pendant with a verse from the Koran and Fatima's hands and a
necklace with three crosses from Brazil reflect the wearer's religion,
while also providing protection. A Yemeni landlord's necklace
contains an abacus, and another necklace has grooming utensils suspended
on it, attesting to their owner's station and profession.
Traditional work and contemporary design are both on view. Examples
of turquoise from the American Southwest, Ladakh and Tibet – belts,
necklaces, rings, bracelets, hats and breastplates; an Ainu necklace
from Japan and a group of Inuit objects, including a delicate bracelet
portraying indigenous creatures, are in the exhibition. A William
Spratling-designed necklace fashioned from pre-Columbian beads, looking
as if it could have been made yesterday, is displayed next to contemporary
jewelry designed by San Diego designer craftsmen Arline Fisch and Helen
Shirk. Shell jewelry from Oceania and intricately worked silver
jewelry from Ethiopia are also on display.
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For more information visit
the Mingei Museum’s website.
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Visits Among Ancestors: Memories and Treasures
Through November 5, 2006
Each
Sunday, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Doctor’s House
Museum and Gazebo
Glendale’s Brand Library Park
1601 West Mountain Street
Glendale, CA
The Armenian Dress and Textile Project (ADTP), with initial funding
from The Glendale Historical Society, announces Visits Among Ancestors:
Memories and Treasures. This exhibit will feature newly
loaned and donated clothing, textiles, and personal belongings of Armenian
families, obtained both locally and nationwide, who emigrated from
central and western Turkey and came to the United States in the 20th
century. ADTP founder Tina Demirdjian and ADTP textile experts
Sofi Khachmanyan and Carol Tuntland will provide the interpretive tours. Additionally,
this exhibit pays special tribute to and is in memory of Mirielle Kalfayan,
poet, friend, and supporter of ADTP.
ADTP’s purpose is to add to the growing collection of dress
and textile, currently housed in Los Angeles, and to expose to the
Armenian and non-Armenian public how women’s dowry items, textiles,
clothing/costumes and stories are a means to identify one’s family
ties and history. ADTP began in 1998 after the discovery of 100-year-old
family dowry items and costumes from Turkey. This material culture
had survived the Armenian Genocide of 1915, overseas migration, and
time. Digital photographs available.
For more information about this exhibit or ADTP, contact Tina Demirdjian
at adtp@earthlink.net or
(818) 547-9507.
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Laughing Bones/Weeping Hearts: Dia de los Muertos 2006
Through December 3, 2006
Oakland Museum
1000 Oak Street
Oakland, CA
Jana Weston, Edward, 2000 Photo: Jeff Becom
The Oakland Museum of California presents its 13th annual celebration
of Días de los Muertos (Days of the Dead). In this year’s
presentation—Laughing Bones/Weeping Hearts—guest curator
Carol Marie Garcia and the artists explore the ways the Days of the
Dead attends to the sorrow of the living and honors and celebrates
the Dead. Artists include Juan R. Fuentes, Jaime Guerrero, Todd Herman,
Fernando Hernandez, Calixto Robles, Joe Bastida Rodriguez, Herminia
Albarran Romero (a former master in ACTA’s
Apprenticeship Program,)
Deborah Rumer, Wende Stitt, Kay Weber, Jana Weston, and Sandra Yagi.
Museum Hours: Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.;
Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Admission: $8
For more information visit
the Oakland Museum’s website.
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Movement: Hip Hop in L.A. - 1980s to Now
November 3, 2006 – December 3, 2006
Kolor Graphics Bureau Gallery
1640 North Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
The official exhibit of the Department of Cultural Affairs’ Art Matter
Conference, Movement: Hip Hop in L.A.– 1980s to Now is an unprecedented
examination of the hip hop experience in Los Angeles from its underground beginnings
to national prominence. This exhibit situates hip hop in a social and political
context that is uniquely west coast. Movement: Hip Hop in
L.A.– 1980s to
Now recognizes hip hop as a diverse culture reflecting the realities of art and
life in Los Angeles.
The Department of Cultural Affairs recognizes the importance of understanding
established and emerging cultures in our rapidly changing city – especially
as they inform and impact youth culture. As illustrated in Movement: Hip
Hop in L.A. - 1980s to Now, contemporary culture is an important source of creativity
that is deeply rooted in the artistic and historical fabric of Los Angeles. Hip
hop culture reminds us of the constantly changing definitions of identity and
community that characterize our global city.
For exhibit information call 213.202.5568 or email hiphopexhibit@yahoo.com.
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Hidden Meanings: Symbolism in Chinese Art
Through December 31, 2006
Asian Art Museum
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
Water container in the shape of a pair of Mandarin duck, China.
Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Porcelain.
The Avery Brundage Collection, B60P1586.Symbolism abounds in the decorative arts of China, rendering clothing,
personal adornment, and household objects rich with meaning. A gourd-shaped
vase decorated with bats is more than just ornamental: it is a promising
omen, as the gourd symbolizes fertility by virtue of its numerous seeds,
and the imagery of bats implies the sentiment "blessings vast
as the sky." By surrounding themselves with such symbols, many
Chinese believed that wishes would be fulfilled.
This exhibition unlocks the mysteries of these "hidden meanings” with
more than 140 porcelains, jades, and textiles from the museum's acclaimed
Avery Brundage Collection, all of which represent wishes for fertility,
a harmonious marriage, wealth and prosperity, long life, and more.
Hidden Meanings is organized into eight sections, seven of which are
governed by the three Star Gods: Fu, Lu, and Shou. Fu (“blessings” or “happiness”)
governs blessings, marriage, and children. Lu (literally, “official
salary”) governs passing exams, gaining official rank, and obtaining
wealth. Shou governs longevity. The exhibition concludes with a display
of objects related to peace and wish granting.
Admission: $10
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00
p.m.; Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
For more information visit
the Asian Art Musum’s website.
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Passage to Panama: Past to Present
A Chocó house, Darién, Panama,
in the 1950s.
Photograph from the William and Evelyn Phillips Collection.
Through January 2007
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.
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East Weaves West: Korean Women Make Art
November 12, 2006 - January 21, 2007
Craft and Folk Art Museum
5814 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA
This exhibition presents textiles by Korean women living in the U.S.,
whose work integrates influences from both Korean and American cultures.
The artwork will demonstrate how two cultural backgrounds are bridged
together in the form of folk art as three contemporary Korean-American
artists use traditional craft to create contemporary work. On display
will be elements of Pojaki (wrapping cloth), Minhwa (folk painting),
Hanji Kongye (paper arts) and Chun Gotgogi (cloth flower arranging).
The exhibition artists and their artwork captures the essence of cultural
process and its transcending nature through geography and time.
Admission: $5
Museum Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.;
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Saturday – Sunday 12:00
p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
For more information visit
the Craft and Folk Art Museum’s website.
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Apache Life, Spirit, and Art
Through February 11, 2007
Riverside Metropolitan Museum
3580 Mission Inn Avenue
Riverside, CA
Apache people from the Riverside area share their culture
in this exhibit. Beautiful clothing, basketry, paintings, and other
items made by Apache people today are presented alongside hundred-year-old
items from the Museum's collection. Artworks by Earl Dean Sisto
and Billy Soza Warsoldier are featured, and the history of Apache life
at Sherman Indian High School is explored.
Museum Hours:
Tuesday—Friday 9:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m.;
Saturday 10:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m.;
Sunday 11:00 a.m.– 5:00
p.m.
For more information visit
the Riverside Metropolitan Museum’s
website.
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Art of Being Tuareg: Sahara Nomads in a Modern World
October 29, 2006 through February 25, 2007
Fowler Museum
UCLA Campus
Los Angeles, CA
The “art” of being Tuareg, a semi-nomadic
people of Niger, Mali, and Algeria, has fascinated travelers and scholars
alike throughout history. Art
of Being Tuareg, the first major U.S. exhibition on Tuareg art and culture,
considers the history and evolution of these peoples by exploring silver jewelry,
leather works including purses, bags, and saddles, and other highly decorated
items crafted by them.
Admission: Free
Museum Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.;
Thursday 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Photo: Fowler Museum
For more information visit
the Fowler Museum’s website.
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Body Ornamentation: Artistic Representations of Self
Photo: San Diego Museum of Man
Through March 27, 2007
San Diego Museum of Man
Balboa Park
1350 El Prado
San Diego, CA
There is no known culture in which people do not paint, pierce, tattoo,
reshape, or simply adorn the unique canvas which is the human body. Diverse
cultures throughout the world decorate their bodies in countless ways
and for various reasons. This exhibit presents the beautiful
designs and artwork depicted in body painting, tattooing, scarification,
and piercing. While seemingly a modern phenomenon, the practice
of permanently adorning the body has been prevalent in societies around
the globe for thousands of years, and has been traced back to ancient
nomadic gypsies in India and the Middle East. While tribal customs
of permanent body decoration have almost disappeared, there are some
regions on earth (northeastern India, the Amazon, and southern China,
for example) where body ornamentation is still practiced in the same
way it has been for generations.
In other areas there has been a resurgence of interest in the old
ways: throughout the American west, women wore chin tattoos celebrating
rebirth and maturity and marking them, in the words of Julian Lang
in News from Native California, as "people who had a
deep connection to and understanding of our most important cultural
knowledge." Today, Indian women in northern California are
again bearing tattoos as expressions of cultural pride. Elsewhere,
new customs and practices have enabled people to continue the tradition
of decorating their bodies using different types of implements and
different stylistic devices. (Excerpted from an article
by Tori Heflin, Curator of Physical Anthropology)
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily
For more information visit
the Museum of Man’s website.
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Of Grass and Gold: Nomads of Kazakhstan
Through April 15, 2007
Mingei International Museum
Balboa Park
1439 El Prado
San Diego, CA
Photo: Mingei Museum
The land of Genghis Khan and the crossroads for the major religions,
Kazakhstan comes to life through artifacts at the Mingei Museum. Gold,
silver, and bronze animal figures from archaeological discoveries,
including those at frozen burial sites in Berel (a nomadic region on
the border of Russia, Mongolia and China), are on display for the first
time in this country. The exhibit also tells the stories behind
these artifacts’ recovery, which weaves together the history
and culture of Kazakhstan along with its mythology and tradition of
craftsmanship.
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For more information visit
the Mingei Museum’s website.
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Guatemala! Celebrations of Weaving
Ongoing
San Diego Museum of Man
Balboa Park
1350 El Prado
San Diego, CA
Guatemala! Celebrations of Weaving showcases textiles
made by women of the Mayan villages in Guatemala. The exhibit includes
examples selected from 30 villages located throughout the country.
For ages before the Spanish arrived in Guatemala in 1524, the Ancient
Mayan people wore clothing that they made on backstrap looms. This
tradition has survived with their descendants in the mainly rectangular
handwoven garments worn today. These include a woman's upper body garment
called a huipil, skirts that can be wrapped around the body
or tubular ones that can be stepped into, utility cloths called servilletas for
everyday use and for ceremonies, and men's or women's headcloths called tzutes. They
also make men's kilts (rodilleras), men's pants, women's shawls (rebozos and perrajes), sashes,
and hair ribbons, all woven by hand. Men from some villages also knit
wool carrying bags for themselves and for their sons.
The clothing items shown in this exhibit were chosen principally for
their beauty. Some were woven for daily wear, but most are special
garments made to wear to fiestas, to funerals, for masses and weddings,
and for cofradía, the religious ceremony unique to
Guatemalan Indians. The women spend extra time and effort on clothing
that they and their family members can wear to these events, making
it more elaborate than clothing for everyday wear.
Admission: $6
Museum Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily
For more information visit
the Museum of Man’s website.
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October
Dia de los Muertos Petaluma 2006
Photo: Petaluma Arts Council
Through November 3, 2006
Various Petaluma Locations
To celebrate the Day of the Dead,
the Petaluma Arts Council has organized altar displays at locations
throughout the town. Special programs
include bilingual storytimes, Flamenco dance, music by CantaFlor, a
traditional procession, and a performance by Ballet Folkloric Netzahualcoyotl.
For more information visit
the Petaluma Arts Council’s website.
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The San Francisco Croatian Festival: A Taste of Croatia
October 21 – 22, 2006
Croatian American Cultural Center
60 Onandaga Ave.
San Francisco, CA
This event features Croatian music, dance and cultural life. Traditional
food and wines will be available for purchase. Croatian songs,
dance and crafts will be taught in workshops, and traditional crafts
and costumes will be on display. Throughout the two day festival, performances
by musical groups Vela Luca Croatian Dance Ensemble and Ruze Dalmatinke will
take place, culminating in their concert in full costume Sunday at
3:00 p.m. Another highlight of the festival takes place Saturday evening
at 7:30 pm – a viewing of the Croatian film “A Wonderful
Night in Split,” Croatia’s entry to the 2006 Academy Awards,
followed by music and dancing.
Admission: $15
For more information visit
the Croatian American Cultural Center’s website.
Photo: Croatian American Cultural Center
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Daughters of Haumea
October 21 -28, 2006
Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
Bay & Lyon Streets
San Francisco, CA
Nā Lei Hulu I Ka Wēkiu is a Hawaiian
dance company based in San Francisco that features hula as a full theatrical
experience that is visually captivating. Its performances are a rich
blend of traditional and contemporary forms of hula. The company's trademark hula
mua style
pays homage to tradition while bringing hula into a modern realm. This
innovative approach showcases hula as a living and evolving art form. Nā Lei
Hulu I Ka Wēkiu’s performances are given in a “talk-story” format
that incorporates narration and dance to provide a rich cultural context
in which to understand the hula.
Nā Lei Hulu I Ka Wēkiu is a current grantee in ACTA’s
Living Cultures Grants Program.
For more information visit
Nā Lei Hulu I Ka Wēkiu’s
website.
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13th Annual Community Celebration for the Days of the Dead
October 22, 2006
12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Oakland Museum
1000 Oak Street
Oakland, CA
This event features hands-on craft activities, demonstrations, music,
dance, ceremonies, food, and a market. Presenters include Cascada de
Flores, Ballet Folklorico Mexicano, La Familia Peña-Govea, Danza
Xiuhcoatl, Mariachi San Jose, and Yolanda Aranda.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Oakland Museum’s website.
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3rd Annual Keli'iokahekili Ho'ike
October 22, 2006 – 4:00 p.m.
Wackford Community and Aquatic Complex
9014 Bruceville Road
Elk Grove, CA
This event celebrates the life and legacy of Uncle John Manu'ia. The
celebration features a lu'au followed by hula performances by by Halau
'O Keikiali'i & Friends and musical performances by Kawika Keikiali’i
Alfiche and special guests.
Admission: $35 – 50
For more information visit
APOP Hawaiian Cultural Center’s website.
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The Four Most Exquisite Women of China
Dancer
Diana Ming Chan
Photo: Deborah Clearwaters
October 26, 2006 – 6:30 p.m.
Asian Art Museum
Samsung Hall
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
The heroism, sense of duty, beauty, and brains of four "exquisite
women" in Chinese history (Lady Xi Shi, Elegant Cicada, Wang Zhao
Jun, and the Precious Concubine) have inspired poems, dances, operas,
plays, paintings, and storytelling throughout the centuries. This evening
of dance, poetry, and music celebrates these women with performances
by dancer Diana Ming Chan, choreographer Jacie Wang, vocalist and pi
pa musician Linda Wang, and flutist Zhu Jing Yao.
Admission: $10
For more information visit
the Asian Art Museum’s website.
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Fés Festival of World Sacred Music
Photo: UCLA Live
October 26, 2006 – 8:00 p.m.
Royce Hall
UCLA Campus
Los Angeles, CA
Following its 2004 U.S. tour debut, this cross cultural celebration
of music and dance returns with another program promoting peace and
unity through art, culture and spiritual transcendence. Touted by the
United Nations as one of the seven most important events in the world
that furthers the dialogue among civilizations, the Fes Festival of
World Sacred Music in Morocco features an array of revered artists
from around the globe. This year's program includes early-music singer
Susan Hellauer from Anonymous 4, South Indian vocalist Aruna Sairam,
Lebanese American percussionist Jamey Haddad and the Moroccan Sufi
ensemble Daqqa of Taroudant, performing an evening of Judaic, Christian,
Muslim, and Hindu sacred music.
Admission: $25
For more information visit
UCLA Live’s website.
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Jordanian Cultural Night
October 26, 2006
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Arab Cultural & Community Center
2 Plaza Street
San Francisco, CA
This event features traditional Jordanian cuisine, music, and art. Honorary
Consul General of Jordan, Mr. Kamel Ayoub, and President of the Jordanian
American Association, Mr. Majdi Alamat, will speak.
Admission: $10
For more information visit
the Arab Cultural & Community Center’s
website.
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Photo: Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
Dia de los Muertos 2006: La Fiesta de los Huesos
October 27 – November 17, 2006
Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
2868 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA
In the exhibit La Fiesta de los Huesos (A party for the dead… and
the living), the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts will display
altars created by members of the community. On October 28, 2006,
the Center will host a craft workshop. Eva Diaz will demonstrate
how to make and create figurines and flowers from Migajón, a
dough made of breadcrumbs which air dries and hardens. She is
a traditional folk artist from Jalisco, Mexico, and teaches Migajón
and traditional Mexican cooking in the Bay Area. Isabel Barraza
will demonstrate how to make an Ojos de Dios, or God’s Eye, which
is believed to come from the native people of Mexico. On November
9, 2006, the Mission Cultural Center will hold its 3rd Annual “Mole
to Die For” Mole Contest.
Admission: $5
For more information visit
the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts website.
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Dalmatinska Noc 2006
Photo: Croatian American Cultural Center
October 28, 2006 - 6:00 p.m.
60 Onondaga Ave.
San Francisco, CA
This event features Mate Caric and Petra Tulic performing waltzes,
polkas, and kolos in traditional Dalmatian-style as well as latest
modern popular music hits from Croatia. Dalmatinska Noc 2006 will be
held at the newly-remodeled Croatian American Cultural Center.
Admission: $40 for dinner and dance; $15 for dance only
For more information visit
the Croatian American Cultural Center’s
website.
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Indian Music Concert
October 28, 2006 – 8:00 p.m.
Harbeson Hall
Pasadena City College
1570 E Colorado Blvd
Pasadena, CA
Photo: The Music Circle
This performance features Debashish Bhattacharya
on guitar and Subhashish Bhattacharya on tabla. Debashish Bhattacharya is an internationally
acclaimed guitarist and winner of the President of India Medal. He
is the inventor of a twenty-four-stringed guitar that has been introduced
worldwide as the "Hindustani slide guitar." An accomplished
tabla player, Subhashish Bhattacharya was trained by several eminent
tabla artists. His skill and aesthetics, blended with the quality of
his improvising, have made him a popular accompanist who tours extensively
in India and abroad.
Admission: $25
For more information visit
the Music Circle’s website.
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Dia de los Muertos Celebration in Palm Springs
October 28, 2006
11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Palm Springs Art Museum
101 Museum Dr.
Palm Springs, CA
This event features music, dance, refreshments, art activities, and
a chance to contribute a token of a loved and lost one to a communal
day of the dead altar.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Palm Springs Art Museum’s website.
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A Concert for Unity
October 28, 2006 - 8:00 p.m.
The Chapel of the Sacred Heart
Loyola Marymount University
Los Angeles, CA
This concert features the Yuval Ron Ensemble with Arabic vocalist
Najwa Gibran, Israeli singer Barak Marshall, Duduk master from Armenia Yeghish
Manukyan, and guest dancer Maya Karasso.
The Yuval Ron Ensemble endeavors to alleviate national, racial, religious
and cultural divides, by uniting the music and dance of the opposing
people of the Middle East into an unusual harmonious celebration. Songs
will be simultaneously performed in Hebrew and Arabic as the Ensemble
creates harmony among the sacred musical traditions of Judaism, Sufism
(Islamic mystical tradition) and the Armenian Christian Church. >
Admission: $20
For more information visit
Yuval Ron’s website.
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Annual Concert of Philippine Dances & Music
October 28 – 29, 2006
Joan Kroc Performing Arts Center
6611 University Ave.
San Diego, CA
This two-hour theater presentation showcases dances from different
regions of the Philippines performed by dancers of the Samahan Performing
Arts, with live music accompaniment by the Rondalla, Gangsa and Kulintang
Ensembles.
Admission: $15
For more information visit
the Samahan Philippine Dance website.
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Concert of Classical Persian Sufi Music
October 29, 2006 – 7:30 p.m.
Wilshire Ebell Theatre
4401 West 8th Street
Los Angeles, CA
This concert features the Lian Ensemble performing Persian Sufi (Mystical
Islamic) music with Soleyman Vaseghi on vocals, Houman Pourmehdi on
tonbak, daf, ney, percussion, and vocals, Mahshid Mirzadeh on santur,
Randy Gloss on daf, Andrew Grueschow on percussion, Austin Wrinkle
on percussion, and Pirayeh Pourafar on tar. Houman Pourmehdi
is a current master artist in ACTA’s
Apprenticeship Program.
Admission: $25
For more information visit
the Lian Ensemble’s website.
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Dia de los Muertos Celebration
October 29, 2006
2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
The Bowers Museum
2002 N. Main Street
Santa Ana, CA
This event features live entertainment by Fiesta Ballet Folklorico,
singers Sonido Mexico and Saddleback High School Guitar Club, traditional
altars, and food.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Bowers Museum website.
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November
ABADÁ Capoeira San Francisco’s Annual Batizado/Jogos
2006 Festival
November 1 – 5, 2006
ABADÁ-Capoeira San Francisco Brazilian Arts Center
3221 22nd Street at Mission Street
San Francisco, CA
The Festival will include a Master Class Series, a Batizado/Graduation
Ceremony, and a capoeira competition.
For more information visit
ABADÁ-Capoeira’s website.
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Day of the Dead San Francisco
November 2, 2006 – 7:00 p.m.
Garfield Park
26th & Harrison
San Francisco, Ca
Day of the Dead San Francisco is a community event that has been happening
for the last 26 years. The Procession lead by Rescue Culture Collective
will start at 7:00 p.m. at 24th & Bryant, in the Mission District
of San Francisco. The Procession will end in Garfield Park at
the Festival of Altars 8:30 p.m. at 26th & Harrison.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
Day of the Dead San Francisco’s
website.
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A Russian Winter’s Tale
November 1, 2006 – 7:00 p.m.
Van Duzer Theatre
Humboldt State University
Arcata, CA
November 3 – 5, 2006
Zellerbach Hall
UC Berkeley Campus
Berkeley, CA
By special arrangement with the Russian Ministry of Culture, the famed
Moscow Circus presents its production, A Russian Winter’s
Tale. Narrated by a mythical Russian “Winter Queen,” the
show itself is based on centuries-old Russian traditions and features
human puppets and ornate costumes and backdrops. This dramatic fable
combines drama, cultural history and circus performances.
For more information visit
the Center Arts website or the Cal
Performances website.
Photo: Cal Performances
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Chinese Jade Art
Photo: Asian Art Museum
November
2-26, 2006, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Thursdays through Sundays
Asian Art Museum
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
Chinese artist Yun San Leung demonstrates the difficult art of working
raw jade into animal shapes and other auspicious forms in conjunction
in conjunction with the exhibition Hidden Meanings.
Admission: $10
For more information visit
the Asian Art Museum’s website.
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Dia de los Muertos Celebration in East Los Angeles
November 2, 2006
6:00 p.m. – 10:00 a.m.
El Gallo Plaza
4545 Cesar E. Chavez Avenue
East Los Angeles, CA
To culminate the 3-day Day of the Dead celebrations taking place throughout
most Latino communities, Al Borde, the award winning bi-weekly publication
focusing on Latin entertainment, will host a night of music, art exhibits,
beautiful altars, pan dulce, hot chocolate, cafe and tamales.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Latino L.A. website.
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Self Help Graphics & Art Day of the Dead Celebration
November 2, 2006
3802 Cesar E. Chavez Avenue
Los Angeles, CA
The celebration begins with a procession, lead by Self Help Graphics
Board President Armando Duron. Participants are asked to meet at Cinco
Puntos (Cesar Chavez & Lorena)
at 5:00 p.m. and proceed to Self Help Graphics & Art. Participants are encouraged
to dress in calavera (skeleton) masks and attire. Calavera face painting will
also be available at Self Help Graphics from 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Participants can bring offers and memories to display at the large
community altar that will be constructed at Self Help's statue of the
vírgen. The
altar will be created by premier altar maker and community resident,
Ofelia Esparza, a former master in ACTA’s
Apprenticeship Program.
For more information visit
the Self Help Graphics website.
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Mexican Day of the Dead Family Festival
November 4, 2006
12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
The Bowers Museum
2002 N. Main Street
Santa Ana, CA
This event features papel picado (Mexican cut paper) demonstrations
by Olga Furginson, dances by Xipe Totct, and Axteca Dance, traditional
food and crafts.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Bowers Museum website.
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Journey on the Strings: Habib Khan Saraswati Temple
November 4, 2006 – 6:00 p.m.
Montgomery Theater
271 S. Market Street San Jose, CA 95113
The opening piece will be a duet performance with Pandit Habib Khan
on Sitar with Larry Coryell on guitar in a unique composition based
on western classical music. This will be the first time that an Indian
musical instrument will play Western Classical Jazz. This will be followed
by Indian Classical music played on both Indian and Western instruments
with vocal support. Ample rhythmic support will be provided by both
Eastern and Western percussion throughout the performance.
Admission: $15-$25
For more information visit
the Artsopolis website.
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Muertos y Máscaras
November 4, 2006 – 8:00 p.m.
Mexican Heritage Plaza Theater
1700 Alum Rock
San Jose, CA
This performance is a celebration of Dia de Los Muertos with Los Lupeños
de San José (Mexican dance company), Alayo Dance Company (Cuban
music and dance company), Paco Gomes (Brazililian dance and music company)
and Relicario y Amigos (Mexian music ensemble).
Admission: $10
For more information visit
the Mexican Heritage Plaza website.
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25th Japanese Music Institute Shakuhachi Concert
November 4, 2006 – 3:00 p.m.
St. Gregory Church
500 De Haro Street
San Francisco, CA
This concert features performances by Shintakasago, Hill Top Teahouse,
Sakura, Shakuhachi Trio, and many others. Performers include
Tim Hamano, Jordan Simmons, Alan Johnson, Peter
Frentzel, Stuart Goodnick, Tom
Anderson, Kallan Nishimoto, Margo
Hinkel, Peter Young, Tom Lew, John
Morris, Terry Brophy, Joe
Meeker, Yuya Sekiya, and Masayuki
Koga, with special guest Jimi Nakagawa.
Admission: $10
For more information visit
the Japanese Music Institute’s
website.
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Intertribal Arts Marketplace
Photo: Museum of the American West
November 4 – 5, 2006
Museum of the American West
Griffith Park
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA
The Intertribal Marketplace features pottery, jewelry, sculpture,
paintings, mixed-media artworks, weavings, beadwork, woodcarvings,
and cultural items created by more than 100 Native artists. Native
dancers, singers, and musicians will perform throughout the weekend
and Native food will be served.
Admission: $10
For more information visit
the Museum of the American West’s
website.
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Suvunnahong and the Jeweled Cave
November 5, 2006 – 1:00 p.m.
Cowell Theatre
Fort Mason
Marina Blvd. at Buchanan St.
San Francisco, CA
The story follows a woman's quest to save her husband's life. With
mystical beings, royalty, sorcery and disguise, her journey reflects
the complexity and intrigue of Thai classical drama.
The show opens with a musical piece highlighting the instruments of
a Thai classical orchestra. Though the play will be performed in Thai,
English synopses will be provided in the program booklet and prior
to each scene. Storytelling in Thai classical dramas occurs in a variety
of ways: through dance, conversational dialogue, spoken monologues
with choreographed hand movements and through a chorus of singers,
moving fluidly from one style into the next.
Admission: $40
For more information visit
the Thai Cultural Center’s website.
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11th Annual Dia de Los Muertos Fruitvale Festival
November 5, 2006
International Boulevard between Fruitvale Avenue and 41st Avenue
Oakland, CA
The Unity Council presents the 11th Annual Dia de Los Muertos Fruitvale
Festival. Dia de Los Muertos Fruitvale Festival has been inducted by
Congresswoman Barbara Lee into the United States Library of Congress
as a “Local Legacy” for the State of California. It is
the largest one-day Dia de Los Muertos festival in the United States.
More than 100,000 people are expected to attend. There will be 150
vendor exhibitors, and expanded arts and crafts displays with over
40 altars ranging from local merchants to non-profit organizations
and public agencies. Food vendors will line the streets offering up
their goods and services. Five entertainment stages with live music
and dancing will feature a diverse musical lineup, ranging from world-class
artists to local youth performers and various types of music including
Salsa, Merengue, Afro-Cuban music, Banda, Cumbia, and Norteño
music.
Traditional dance will include Aztec Dancers as well as Ballet Folklórico
and others.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Unity Council’s website.
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Melody of China & the Del Sol String Quartet
November 6, 2006 – 8:00 p.m.
Music Recital Hall
Sacramento State University
Sacramento, CA
The Festival of New American Music presents Melody of China and the
Del Sol String Quartet. Melody of China promotes traditional
Chinese music spiced with “youthful, multi-colored American culture.” The
event features two world premieres of contemporary works by local composers
Kui Dong and Duo Hang, performed together with the vibrant, Grammy-nominated
Del Sol, who make contemporary classical accessible.
For more information visit
Melody of China’s website.
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Remembering George Harrison and his Love of Indian Music
Photo: The Music Circle
Saturday November 11, 2006 – 7:00 p.m.
Japan America Theater
244 South San Pedro Street
Los Angeles, CA
This performance features Lakshmi Shankar, daughter of Ravi Shankar,
on vocals, and Grammy award winner Vishwa Mohan Bhatt on guitar. Other
performers include Shubhankar Banerjee on tabla, Gopal Marathe on harmonium,
and Jagan Ramamurthy on violin. This event will highlight George
Harrison’s support of Indian musicians and the musical tradition
they have shared with western listener for over 50 years.
Admission: $25
For more information visit
the Music Circle’s website.
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Runaway Moon
November 17 – 19, 2006
SomArts Cultural Center
934 Brannan Street
San Francisco, CA
Somei Yoshino Taiko Ensemble (SYTE) is a four-member performing group
based in the Bay Area. SYTE will premeire their new collaborative
work entitled RUNAWAY MOON, inspired by a story illustrated in Japanese
sumie ink painting by painter and storybook author Minette Mangahas.
Admission: $20
For more information visit
the Total Taiko Resource website.
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2006 International Taiko Festival
November 18, 2006 - 7:00 a.m.
Zellerbach Hall
UC Berkeley Campus
Bancroft at Telegraph
Berkeley, CA
San Francisco Tako Dojo presents its annual Taiko Festival with special
guests Sacramento Taiko Dan, Korean musician Pak Poe, Shumei Taiko
Koji Nakamura, Kiyonari Tosha, and Hachijo Taiko Hiro Asanuma.
Admission: $32 – $46
For more information visit
the Cal Performances website.
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The 12th California Indian Storytelling Festival
Saturday, November 18, 2006
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
San Leandro Public Library Theater Center
300 Estudillo Avenue
San Leandro, California
The Festival will bring together Native storytellers from throughout
California, with special guests from Hawaii. The Festival program includes
storytelling performances, panel discussions, and other presentations
on indigenous oral traditions, folklore and storytelling.
Festival workshops are recommended for adults and teens, ages 15 and
up. Storytelling and music performances are recommended for adults
and children ages 8 and up.
For more information visit
the California Indian Storytelling Association’s
website.
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Preserving the Sprit: Coil Juncus Basket Making
November 18 -19, 2006
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
219 South Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA
Lorene Sisquoc (Cahuilla/Ft. Sill Apache) of Sherman Indian School
and of the California Indian Basket Association (CIBA) will give an
introduction course in the traditional form of coil juncus basket making. This
class will be limited in seating. Workshop fees include basket
materials.
Admission: $75
For more information visit
the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum’s
website.
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San Francisco Kolo Festival
November 24 – 25, 2006
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.
60 Onondaga Ave.
San Francisco, CA
The SF Kolo Festival will be held for first time at the Croatian American Cultural
Center. Dennis Boxell, Yves Moreau, John Filcich, and John Morovich will teach
kolos (Croatian group folk dances) and music.
For more information visit
the Croatian American Cultural Center’s website.
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Golden Dragon Acrobats
November 24 – 26, 2006
Zellerbach Hall
UC Berkeley Campus
Berkeley, CA
For thousands of years, Chinese acrobats have astounded audiences
with their practice of one of the longest-running folk art form in
history. In their homeland, they are as revered as prima ballerinas
and opera singers are in the West. The performance features acrobatics,
traditional dance, and ornate costumes.
Admission: $22 – 42
For more information visit
the Cal Performances website.
December
Oral History in Cahuilla Culture
December 6, 2006 - 6:30 p.m.
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens
47900 Portola Ave.
Palm Desert, CA
The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is currently recording oral histories
from the Cahuilla community and surrounding desert/mountain areas.
Dawn Wellman, Assistant Curator of the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum,
will explain how effective oral histories can be for preserving culture
and family history.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum’s
website.
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Parol Lantern Festival and Parade
December 9, 2006
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Yerba Buena Gardens Esplanade
Mission at 3rd Street
San Francisco, CA
The Bayanihan Community Center hosts a festive celebration of holiday
spirit, hope, unity and pride to the glow of hundreds of lights from
colorful hand-crafted Filipino parol lanterns.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Bayanihan Community Center’s
website.
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Las Posadas Mexican Christmas Program
December 10, 1006 – 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
The Bowers Museum
2002 N. Main St.
Santa Ana, CA
Visitors can witness the traditional Mexican festival that re-enacts
Mary and Joseph seeking refuge in Bethlehem and enjoy singers, dancers,
musicians, a piñata and Santa Claus plus traditional tamales
and hot chocolate. The event is co-sponsored by the Hispanic Arts Council.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Bowers Museum website.
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Winter Festival
December 10, 2006
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Oakland Museum
1000 Oak St.
Oakland, CA
This event celebrates diverse winter traditions with a day of hands-on
Christmas, Chanukah, and Kwanzaa activities, strolling carolers, and
food and fun treats for sale. The Pacific Mozart Ensemble will present
A Story of Freedom Told Through Spirituals for Kwanzaa. There will
also be jewelry, crafts, and clothing by local artists at a special
holiday gift sale.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Oakland Museum’s website.
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Annual Bird Song and Dance Festival: Singing the Birds
(Wikitmallem
Tahmuwhae)
December 16, 2006 11:00 AM
The Pavilion Auditorium
Sunrise Park
401 South Sunrise Way
Palm Springs, CA
The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum invites the bird singing community
and the public to participate in this year’s Singing the Birds
(Wikitmallem Tahmuwhae) Annual Bird Song and Dance Festival. This event
is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the art of bird singing
and dancing. The event will include scheduled performances, inter-tribal
bird dancing, tap-out contest with prizes, food and beverages, and
Native American vendors.
Admission: Free
For more information visit
the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum’s
website.
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Merri-Achi Christmas
December 16, 2006
California Theatre of the Performing Arts
562 West Fourth Street
San Bernardino, CA
This Christmas program features Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez
and Pacifico Dance Company. They will present a short re-enactment
of the Posadas and perform the sounds of Christmas.
Admission: $30 - $60
For more information visit
the Inland Arts website.
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2006 – 2007 Hmong International New Year Celebration
December
26, 2007 – January 1, 2007
Fresno Fairgounds
Cedar/Kings Canyon Rd.
Fresno, CA
Photo: Hmong International New Year Celebration
The Hmong New Year celebration in Fresno is a destination for Hmong
people from around the world drawing over 150,000 people each year.
For seven days, the festivities take place at the Fresno Fairgrounds
and include the wearing of traditional Hmong clothing, courtship games,
traditional singing and music, traditional food, and vendors of cultural
items.
For 30 years, Hmong-Americans have celebrated their annual New Year
Celebration in the United States. Of all such events, the Celebration
in Fresno remains one of the largest of its kind. Many of these individuals
come from outside of California and outside of the country, including
Asia and Europe. The Hmong New Year is particularly important for young
adults. Often, due to the daily toils of living, eligible young adults
have had little time for fun and courtship. The intermission from work
provides them an opportune time for entertainment, socializing and
the making of new friends.
During this time, Hmong elders encourage their children to interact
in mutual respect through a game of pov pob or "tossing ball." The
young eligible adults are dressed in their most elaborate outfits and
are encouraged to befriend others from different clans. For days, these
youngsters will toss balls to one another. Frequently, deep friendships
develop from the interactions, oftentimes resulting in marriage. This
union of clans ensures hope for the future and the survival of Hmong
culture. It also fosters a genuine sense of harmony and mutual respect
among the people.
Admission: $3
For more information visit
the event’s website.
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21st Annual Japanese New Year’s Bell-Ringing Ceremony
December 31, 2006
11:15 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Asian Art Museum
Samsung Hall
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA
The Asian Art Museum carries on the ancient Japanese annual tradition
in which a temple bell is struck 108 times in order that the bad experiences,
wrong deeds, and ill luck of the old year may be left behind. Led by
a Buddhist priest, visitors can take a turn ringing the museum's sixteenth-century
bronze bell. This year's event also features a bamboo flute (shakuhachi)
performance by John Singer.
Admission: $10
For more information visit
the Asian Art Museum’s website.
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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.
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