"Primavera Mexicana" Concert at A&M International Sunday, April 30

The traditional dance and music of old Mexico will take center stage at a free concert at Texas A&M International University Sunday, April 30 at 6 p.m. in the University's Kinesiology/Convocation Building.

The "Una Primavera Mexicana" concert will showcase the University Band, A&M International's Ballet Folklorico, the Ballet Folklorico Juvenil de A&M Internacional, and the University's Mariachi Internacional.

The public is cordially invited to attend this evening of entertainment.

The University Band, directed by veteran musician Elmo Lopez, will play a selection of musical favorites as a prelude to the concert and the Mariachi International, also directed by Lopez, will perform traditional Mexican songs.

The Ballet Folklorico, a performance group comprised entirely of A&M International students, will present traditional dances from Veracruz, Jalisco, and Nayarit, Mexico plus debut dances from the Mexican state of Sinaloa. Selections will include "Boda en Nayarit," "Carnaval de Mazatlan," "La Bamba," "Pato Asado," and "Toro Mambo."

The Ballet Folklorico Juvenil, a group of 5 - 16 year-olds enrolled in the University's children's dance class, will perform dances from Chiapas, Veracruz, and Jalisco. "Las Chiapanecas," "La Bruja," and "La Culebra" are among the dances they will perform.

A free reception will be held after the concert. Refreshments will be served and children will also receive free toy prizes while supplies last.

The "Una Primavera Mexicana" concert is the culminating event in Laredo's official "Dia de los Niños" celebration. Dia de los Niños will also feature a kickoff celebration at the Laredo Public Library at 1 p.m. and simultaneous venues from 1 - 4 p.m. at locations throughout the city.

For more information, please contact Mendoza-Garcia at 326-2280. University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu