The Ballet Folklórico will perform at the University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center and Kahilu Theatre in Waimea during an official visit as representatives of La Serena, Chile, a Sister City of the County of Hawaii.
Created under the administration of La Serena Mayor Roberto Jacob Jure, the company is an artistic cast of excellence, which uses dance to promote the social and cultural manifestations of the people of Chile with an emphasis on the local heritage of the city of La Serena.
“This is the first group from La Serena in our almost 30-year sister city relationship to ever visit Hawaii,” said Jane Clement, Hawaii County’s Sister City Protocol Officer. “We are excited to welcome them to our island and invite our community to show them our aloha by supporting their shows.”
During the last eight years, it has performed more than 2,000 times throughout Chile, in addition to making appearances in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Ecuador. It has a wide and diverse repertoire acclaimed by critics specializing in traditional Chilean culture, which positions it as one of the best artistic casts in its area.
“Our Sister City relationships are very important to our administration,” said Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth. “The mission of this program is to build global cooperation at the municipal level, promote cultural understanding and stimulate sustainable economic development.”
Showtime at UH-Hilo is 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. Seating is open. Ticket prices are $20 General; $15 Senior (55 and older); $15 faculty/staff/alumni; $10 UH Hilo/HCC Student with valid ID (one ticket per I.D.); $10 Youth 17 and younger.
Showtime at the Kahilu Theatre is 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10. Tickets are $35. https://kahilutheatre.org/Home