Photography in Mexico| May – ongoing
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is presenting a complex synthesis of art and politics; this exhibition explores Mexico’s distinctively rich and diverse photography tradition from the 1920s to the present. It begins in the period following the Mexican Revolution, and includes photographs made for the illustrated press at midcentury and documentary investigations from the 1970s and 1980s. The exhibition concludes with contemporary examinations of social, environmental, and economic concerns both within Mexicoand along its northern border. For more information: http://www.latinbayarea.com/event/869/photography-in-mexico-sfmoma
Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles| May 2-3
Back by popular demand after a thrilling sold-out performance last spring, Mariachi Reyna returns to The CSUMB World Theater for two performances. Enriching the mariachi forum as America’s first all female mariachi ensemble, Reyna de Los Angeles bring sensitivity, beauty, warmth and an attractive perspective to the realm of Mexico’s musical heritage. Their performances are mesmerizing, energetic and irresistible. Come celebrate their dynamic expression which fuels the intensity and power characteristic of the mariachi. Tickets run from $10-$40, for more information visit: http://worldtheater.csumb.edu/
Steinbeck Festival| May 3-6
The 32nd annual Steinbeck Festival 2012 kicks off May 3 at the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas. The festival includes everything from tours of John Steinbeck’s house and ranch to readings and workshop to celebrate the great author. For more information visit: http://www.steinbeck.org/pages/steinbeck-festival–
Oakland Cinco De Mayo with Ballet Folklorico Mexicano| May 4
With the purpose of promoting Mexican culture and folklore in the U.S, the Ballet Folkorico Mexicano, draws on traditional dance, music and songs as tools for cultural transmission. Since its founding, the BFM has educated and provided performing opportunities to many young people. The BFM has worked toward developing a comprehensive artistic Program that fully supports and individual’s artistic capabilities, in addition to promoting Mexican culture and history through dance and music. Come enjoy Mexican folkloric dance on the stage, May 4th in honor of Cinco de Mayo at the Oakland City Center, for more information visit: http://www.oaklandcitycenter.com/events/cinco_de_mayo_ballet_folklorico_mexicano
Mexico’s “Savior”| May 4 & 7
VivaFest presents a rare opportunity to hear the man the New York Times called Mexico’s “savior” – peace activist and poet Javier Sicilia, will discuss the emerging peace movement in Mexico and it’s impact on US/Mexico relations. Joining Javier for this important dialogue will be CNN commentator Ruben Navarette, LA Times columnist Ruben Martinez and border troubadors Ronstadt Generations. Find out how the movement for non-violent change is impacting policy and community initiatives on both sides of the border with the activists who are leading Mexico’s “Spring of Peace. This event is held in San Joseat two different locations, May 4th is $10 and the 7th is free. For more information visit: http://bit.ly/Jh3XaO
SF Cinco de Mayo| May 5
San Francisco’s annual Cinco de Mayo celebration is one of the City’s most spectacular traditions! SF Cinco de Mayo showcases the very best of Mexican and Latin American cultures with a diverse array of music, dance and artistry for the entire family to enjoy. The eighth annual San Francisco’s Cinco de Mayo Festival, is an alcohol-free, family friendly cultural celebration that draws thousands of attendees from all over the San Francisco Bay Area. The event is held at Dolores Park in San Francisco, Saturday, May 5th, 2012 – 10:00am to 6:00pm. For more information visit: http://www.latinbayarea.com/event/903/san-francisco-cinco-de-mayo-festival
Festival of the Silk Road| May 6
Festival of the Silk Road is an event full evening of dance, music and poetry from the Silk Road including Iran, Turkey, China, India, Uzbekistanand Tajikistan. The festival unites some phenomenal Bay Area dance and musical guests to celebrate the rich cultural traditions of the Silk Road. A spectacular Chinese dragon will be making a grand appearance during the evening concert in honor of the Chinese year of the dragon. Ticket prices include the 7:00pm evening concert, plus family fun in the gardens! Concert runs from 7:00 – 9:30pm. Event is held at the lovely gardens of the MexicanHeritagePlazaat 1700 Alum Rock AvenueSan Jose. For more information visit: http://www.teamsanjose.mobi/calendardetail.cfm?id=441482079
Creative Minds: Enrique Chagoya Exhibit| May 6
Artist Enrique Chagoya is a well represented Hispanic artisit in San Jose Museum of Art ’s permanent collection. Several of his works are now on view in Mexicanisimo through Artists’ Eyes (exhibit open through Septmeber 23, 2012). Enrique will offer insight on the diverse aspects of culture and traditions that he explores in his paintings and prints. Exhibit will be held at the San Jose Museum of Art, and starts at 7 P.M. for more information visit:
http://www.sjmusart.org/event/creative-minds-enrique-chagoya
Latino Art Now| May 19
Come join Movimento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana for their 14th annual art auction. Collect the very best of Latino art from the Bay Area and beyond! Event is Saturday, May 19 in San Joseand the live auction is at 7:30pm. Auction ticket prices $30 in advance / $40 at the door or Please call (408) 998-2783 x 28 For more information visit: http://www.maclaarte.org/
34th Annual SF Carnaval| May 26-27
California’s largest annual multi-cultural celebrations, San Francisco Carnaval 2012, is taking place Memorial Day weekend inSan Francisco’s Mission District. This year’s theme is, “Spanning Borders; Bridging Cultures,” will be held Saturday May 26 and Sunday May 27. The grand parade is an extraordinary, must-see event that is represented by and honors cultures from around the world. Alongside brilliant floats, lavishly dressed performers and musicians will entertain as the parade makes its way through the Mission District. A vast variety of cultures will be represented, featuring old and new traditions by way of music, dance and artistry. As one of the Bay Area’s most beloved two-day events, the free, family-friendly San Francisco Carnaval Festival showcases a diverse array of food, live music and activities for all. For more information visit: http://sfcarnaval.org/
Luis Enrique in Concert| May 27
Latin singer, Luis Enrique is having a concert along with much more artists at the first Pisco Festival 2012 in the Bay Area. Doors open at 11am. For more information visit: http://www.latinbayarea.com/event/872/luis-enrique-in-concert
Mary Poppins| May 29-June 10
The musical hit Mary Poppins is bringing its own brand of Broadway magic to San Jose! It will feature the irresistible story and unforgettable songs from one of the most popular Disney films of all time, plus brand-new breathtaking dance numbers and spectacular stage-craft, Mary Poppins is everything you could ever want in a hit Broadway show! The show is held at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts and tickets start at $25. For more information visit: http://www.broadwaysanjose.com/shows/marypoppins.html