Fiesta de la Hispanidad March 26 in Ilfeld Auditorium
The 17th Annual New Mexico Highlands University Fiesta de la Hispanidad brings music and dance center stage at Ilfeld Auditorium March 26, 6:30 p.m., for this popular community celebration of Hispanic culture.
The cost for the event is $4, and there will be free refreshments and door prizes. The university’s historic Ilfeld Auditorium is at 900 University Ave.
Fiesta de la Hispanidad is sponsored by New Mexico Highlands University President Jim Fries, the university’s School of Social Work, and Community First Bank of Las Vegas.
“The artists each bring their own unique talent to the Fiesta and it will be another fine performance in Ilfeld Auditorium, the most beautiful arts venue in Las Vegas,” said Highlands University professor Sara Harris, who has organized Fiesta de la Hispanidad since its inception. “The broad spectrum of the artists’ ages will make the Fiesta especially charming this year. The musicians and dancers all volunteer their time, and I’m grateful to each and every one of them.”
Harris said the performing artists this year include many well-known local names as well as some newcomers to the Fiesta. A few examples include:
Dona Antonia Apodaca, a living legend on accordion and vocals.
Chuck Medina and his group, Enchanted Knights.
Los Zapateados Ballet Folklorico, directed by Lori Bovia.
Gabriella Andrea Tafoya, 11, vocalist, winner of the children’s song of the year award at the 20th New Mexico Hispano Music Awards.
Jose Maestas, the first comedian to ever perform at the Fiesta, is a Highlands University graduate.
New Mexico Highlands University’s award-winning Mariachi Vaqueros de la Sierra will perform from 6 — 6:30 p.m. before the Fiesta begins. Jimmy Leger directs the group.
During the program, Mariachi Vaqueros de la Sierra will accompany Albuquerque vocalist Sandra Montoya, a recording artist who performs professionally with Grupo Tradicion. Montoya is a Highlands University graduate from Serafina, N.M.
Harris said those interested in helping out at the Fiesta may call her at 505-454-0438.
Tickets are available at the door, and also in advance from Donna Martinez, manager for Ilfeld Auditorium and the university’s radio station KEDP 91.1 FM, 901 University Ave., Suite 103, 505-454-3238.
Any proceeds after expenses from Fiesta de la Hispanidad will benefit the scholarship program in the School of Social Works’ one-of-a-kind Bilingual/Bicultural Graduate Program.