Introducing the Cultural Connections Concert Series at OdySea in the Desert

Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and OdySea in the Desert present a series of free, family-friendly cultural concerts beginning March 2, 2019

OdySea in the Desert and the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance are pleased to announce the Cultural Connections Concert Series, a free live music and dance series. The concerts will showcase local and global influences from colorful Mexican Folklorico Dancers and powerful Japanese Taiko Drumming, to the dancelike martial arts of Brazilian Capoeira, and fluid choreography of break dancing. The series will offer local performers, professional ensembles, and community groups the opportunity to share the sights and sounds inspired by their own cultural identities and traditions to bridge communities through the arts.
The FREE monthly performances will take place Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the OdySea in the Desert outdoor courtyard. Coupled with hands-on kids’ activities and over 20 dining, shopping, and amusement establishments, the Cultural Connections Concert Series provides the perfect afternoon outing for the whole family. 

About the Series:

March 2, 2019
Mariachi and Folklorico at Odysea: Celebrate the colors and vibrant sounds of the Mariachi and Folklorico traditions with Arizona's finest student groups and community performers. The rich, cultural history of Mexico explodes with each note of mariachi music as the folklorico ensembles tell stories of heartbreak and celebration of life through traditional dance.
 
April 6, 2019
Rhythms of the World: Jam out to the rhythmic pulse of drums from across the world. Combining highly physical, large-scale drumming with contemporary costumes, precise choreography and innovative visuals, Rhythms of the World will offer an energetic and unforgettable production as the crowd’s energy helps fuel the groups’ performances.

May 4, 2019
Beat the Feet: Connect with the Valley's hottest hip-hop dance and capoeira crews in one furious night of footwork. An unforgettable artistic journey around the world through dance, Beat the Feat will highlight the legacy of dance and the storytelling power it embodies.
 
“What a line-up! These acts are diverse, exciting, very visual and highly entertaining,” said David Widoff, Events Marketing Manager of OdySea in the Desert. “The launch of this inaugural concert series will add a dynamic new component to the events at OdySea in the Desert and is sure to make for a memorable experience for all ages.”

The concerts are a creative collaboration between OdySea in the Desert and the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance, bringing opportunities for local performers to showcase their talents and share their unique cultural perspectives with the community, integrating business and the arts in new and creative ways.   

The full lineup of performers is available at www.saaca.org/culturalconnections.html

OdySea in the Desert Cultural Connections Concert Series
When: First Saturday Monthly, March – May 2019, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: OdySea in the Desert, 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Cost: Free
Online: https://www.saaca.org/culturalconnections.html
Phone: (602) 697-0056
 
NOTE TO MEDIA: Photos available

About OdySea in the Desert entertainment destination
OdySea in the Desert is a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination that features world-class attractions including OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, BODIES REVEALED, and Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs in addition to 20 dining, shopping, and amusement venues. The outdoor courtyard regularly hosts a variety of events and family entertainment throughout the year. Parking is free and there is no admission required to enter OdySea in the Desert. OdySea in the Desert is located at 9500 E. Via de Ventura Scottsdale, AZ 85256, within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. For more information please call 480-951-2100 or visit the website at www.odyseainthedesert.com.

About the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance
The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a not-for-profit organization that exists to ensure that, through engagement in arts and culture, our communities produce strong, inspired citizens. SAACA enlists artists, businesses, governments, and individuals to expand artistic and cultural opportunities in their respective communities. To enhance access to the arts and to promote cultural awareness in the communities it serves, SAACA presents large-scale festivals, events and other programs. The Alliance also promotes educational opportunities in the arts and culture for all ages.
 
For more information about programs and events produced by the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance please visit www.saaca.org.