The Arts Council of Princeton will hold its first Open House on Sunday from 1-5 p.m. The afternoon will feature free performances and activities, featuring Princeton University’s Ballet Folklórico and a Cinco de Mayo (Fifth of May) festival.
Throughout the day, adults and children will be encouraged to explore the different studios and galleries in the building, and to try their hand at producing unique artwork. Faculty members and volunteers will be on hand to demonstrate various techniques used to create pottery and watercolors.
El Cinco de Mayo is a major Mexican holiday which celebrates a great Mexican victory over the imperial forces of Napoleon III of France on May 5, 1862.
The centerpiece of the Open House is a two-hour presentation by Ballet Folklórico de Princeton, a dance troupe composed of Princeton University students who are dedicated to developing ties with Princeton’s Latino community.
At 2:30 p.m., the group will perform traditional folk dances throughout the afternoon and will elaborate through music, food, and discussion on the historical and cultural setting of El Cinco de Mayo.
According to Crystal Davenport-Harris, coordinator of Ballet Folklórico de Princeton, the group hopes that "local Latino residents will begin attending Ballet Folklórico performances and eventually become more comfortable attending other university events, thereby benefiting from university resources."
The Open House and Cinco de Mayo festival will take place at the Arts Council, 102 Witherspoon St., (609) 924-8777.
