TAMIU's 'Cri Cri' Makes Special Appearance at Encinal Benefit

There are a few more chances to see the magical world of "Cri-Cri: El Grillito Cantor" (Cri Cri: The Singing Cricket). On Saturday, April 24, the Texas A&M International University dancers will travel to the county park in Encinal, Texas for a special performance to benefit Hecho en Encinal at 4:30 p.m.

Hecho en Encinal is a non-profit arts and cultural organization and this event will be part of the Spring Garden Party to raise funds for the program. Other children's activities at the Party include face painting, spin art and a showing of a video created by Encinal children. In addition, there will be a silent auction featuring local artists.

Performances will also be held on Friday, April 23 at 10 a.m. in Zapata at the high school and at 1:30 p.m. at the Bruni High School.

"Cri-Cri," originally created by the Mexican-born Francisco Gabilondo Soler as a radio educational show teaching children positive values, reached its fame in Mexico and Latin America in the 1940s and has continued to be a popular icon since.

"Cri-Cri's" story starts with Pancho and Teté, two children who must spend the weekend at their grandmother's house. At first, they are not convinced they will have a good time at their grandmother's, but are intrigued by her attic, full of forgotten objects like dolls, old jars, furniture and an old radio. Soon, they meet Cri-Cri, a cricket who guides them through a world of adventures, mischief and unique places.

For further information, please contact Leyendecker at 326-2625.

University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.