Mexican dance spectacular "Jarocho" tells unique culture of
Veracruz (with photo)
************************************************************ Nearly 40 dancers and musicians will present an on-stage fiesta "Jarocho" with a magical historic tour through Folk, Classical, Flamenco, Salsa and Afro-Cuban rhythms, and a plentiful harvest of multicultural union, bringing audiences to the joyful heart of the culture of the ancient Mexican city of Veracruz.
Making its Asia premiere in Hong Kong, the Mexican dance spectacular "Jarocho" is the opening week special presentation of the "Latin Passion" Festival organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. It will be staged at 7:30pm on October 22 and 23, and also at 3pm on October 23 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre.
Veracruz is often regarded as North America's first melting pot of African, European, and Native American cultures. The Son Jarocho is a genre that combines Spanish flamenco, pre-Columbian and African music. Jarocho is not only the name given to music and dance unique to Veracruz, but also a way of life for generations who had lived in this region.
With the support of Universidad Veracruzana and under the direction of Richard O'Neal, who was part of the creative team behind the world-famous Riverdance, the dance company Jarocho has created the show "Jarocho" that reflects the strength and vibrant energy of Veracruz.
With a live music band on platforms, beautiful costumes and a set based on white, black and red themes, this spicy Mexican extravaganza and grand stage production is a visual feast that combines both the traditional and contemporary, symbolising movement, vivacity and rhythm.
"Jarocho" opens with 'Zapateado', a spectacular dance show piece featuring more than 20 dancers on stage. This is followed by a series of diverse performances: 'La Bruja' (The Witch) is shrouded with the mysteries of the Veracruz culture; 'Ritmo' (Rhythm) is an animated dialogue between the percussionists and dancers based on Jarocho traditions; combining traditional dance with theatre, 'Fandango' illustrates the colourful Fandango folk culture; 'Flamenco' honours the Spanish heritage, while 'Danzon' celebrates a beloved ballroom dance that is still alive today in Veracruz; the rhythmic and liberated 'Noche Cubana' (Cuban Night) reflects the influence of salsa and Cuban culture on the region; 'Jarocho' takes the show to its climax, with dancers and musicians collabrating in a fusion piece...
Tickets of "Jarocho" priced from $120 to $340 are available at URBTIX outlets. Half-price tickets are available for full-time students, senior citizens, people with disabilities and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance recipients. Group booking discounts are up to 20% off.
Programme brochures of the "Latin Passion" Festival are available at URBTIX outlets or at the website, www.latinfestival.gov.hk
For programme enquiries, call 2370 1044. Telephone reservations can be made on 2734 9009 and credit card telephone bookings on 2111 5999. Internet bookings can be made at www.urbtix.hk
Veracruz (with photo)
************************************************************ Nearly 40 dancers and musicians will present an on-stage fiesta "Jarocho" with a magical historic tour through Folk, Classical, Flamenco, Salsa and Afro-Cuban rhythms, and a plentiful harvest of multicultural union, bringing audiences to the joyful heart of the culture of the ancient Mexican city of Veracruz.
Making its Asia premiere in Hong Kong, the Mexican dance spectacular "Jarocho" is the opening week special presentation of the "Latin Passion" Festival organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. It will be staged at 7:30pm on October 22 and 23, and also at 3pm on October 23 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre.
Veracruz is often regarded as North America's first melting pot of African, European, and Native American cultures. The Son Jarocho is a genre that combines Spanish flamenco, pre-Columbian and African music. Jarocho is not only the name given to music and dance unique to Veracruz, but also a way of life for generations who had lived in this region.
With the support of Universidad Veracruzana and under the direction of Richard O'Neal, who was part of the creative team behind the world-famous Riverdance, the dance company Jarocho has created the show "Jarocho" that reflects the strength and vibrant energy of Veracruz.
With a live music band on platforms, beautiful costumes and a set based on white, black and red themes, this spicy Mexican extravaganza and grand stage production is a visual feast that combines both the traditional and contemporary, symbolising movement, vivacity and rhythm.
"Jarocho" opens with 'Zapateado', a spectacular dance show piece featuring more than 20 dancers on stage. This is followed by a series of diverse performances: 'La Bruja' (The Witch) is shrouded with the mysteries of the Veracruz culture; 'Ritmo' (Rhythm) is an animated dialogue between the percussionists and dancers based on Jarocho traditions; combining traditional dance with theatre, 'Fandango' illustrates the colourful Fandango folk culture; 'Flamenco' honours the Spanish heritage, while 'Danzon' celebrates a beloved ballroom dance that is still alive today in Veracruz; the rhythmic and liberated 'Noche Cubana' (Cuban Night) reflects the influence of salsa and Cuban culture on the region; 'Jarocho' takes the show to its climax, with dancers and musicians collabrating in a fusion piece...
Tickets of "Jarocho" priced from $120 to $340 are available at URBTIX outlets. Half-price tickets are available for full-time students, senior citizens, people with disabilities and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance recipients. Group booking discounts are up to 20% off.
Programme brochures of the "Latin Passion" Festival are available at URBTIX outlets or at the website, www.latinfestival.gov.hk
For programme enquiries, call 2370 1044. Telephone reservations can be made on 2734 9009 and credit card telephone bookings on 2111 5999. Internet bookings can be made at www.urbtix.hk
Ends/Tuesday, October 4, 2005
Issued at HKT 15:56
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