ACA to showcase local artists through Dia de los Muertos-inspired evening of music, dance and culture
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The Arts + Culture Alliance (ACA) is excited to present Voices & Memories, an intimate cultural showcase celebrating local artistry, storytelling and tradition through music and dance inspired by Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The evening will feature performances by local artists Kristin Stuchis and Bertha Alicia Santillan Medina’s Folklore Dance Group, offering audiences an opportunity to experience the beauty of cultural expression through the arts.
This special event will take place on Saturday, October 24, at the ACA, located at 126 W. Main St. in downtown Marshalltown. Doors will open at 6:00 PM, with performances beginning at 6:30 PM and continuing until 8:00 PM. The event is free, family-friendly and open to all.
At the heart of Voices & Memories is a celebration of local talent and the unique ways artists share their stories, experiences and cultural identities. Through original Spanish-language music and traditional folkloric dance, performers will invite audiences to explore the connections between art, heritage and community.
“Art has an incredible ability to bring people together, even when our backgrounds, experiences and traditions may be different,” said Kelbryn VanGundy, Marketing + Program Coordinator at the Arts + Culture Alliance. “Our goal with this showcase is to create a platform for local artists to share their talents while inviting our community to experience and learn about the cultures that make Marshalltown so special. Día de los Muertos provides a beautiful opportunity to explore how music, movement and storytelling can preserve traditions, honor memories and create meaningful connections.”
Día de los Muertos is a Mexican tradition honoring the lives and memories of loved ones who have passed. Rooted in remembrance, family and celebration, the tradition recognizes the lasting connections between generations through art, music, food and storytelling.
Throughout the evening, guests will experience original songs performed by Kristin Stuchis, accompanied by her husband, alongside traditional folkloric dance presented by Bertha Alicia Santillan Medina’s Folklore Dance Group.
Each performance offers a unique expression of artistry and an opportunity to experience culture through the perspectives of local performers.
As Stuchis shared, "Día de los Muertos may translate to 'Day of the Dead,' but it is truly a celebration of life. I feel honored to share songs and stories inspired by my experiences living in Mexico, where I witnessed the beautiful traditions of honoring loved ones and ancestors. This opportunity has inspired the creation of bilingual songs and poetry that connect personal memories, cultural traditions and the symbolic journey of migrating monarch butterflies. I’m deeply grateful to the Arts + Culture Alliance for creating opportunities for artists to share their stories and bring our community together in meaningful ways."
In addition to the performances, the ACA will feature a community ofrenda, or remembrance altar, where attendees are invited to bring a photograph of a loved one who has passed to honor their memory. Photographs may be taken home following the event.
Complimentary food and refreshments will also be available, featuring offerings from local businesses including Frescas, Lara’s Bakery and Tannin. Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy traditional treats and gather in a welcoming environment that encourages curiosity, conversation and connection.
The Arts + Culture Alliance extends a special thank you to Members First Community Credit Union, Pinnacle Bank and Iowa Area Development Group for their generous support in making Voices & Memories possible. Their investment helps create opportunities for local artists to share their talents, celebrate cultural traditions and bring our community together through the arts.
Whether you’re familiar with Día de los Muertos or experiencing its traditions for the first time, Voices & Memories welcomes everyone to come together in appreciation of the artists, stories and cultures that enrich our community.
For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/1641248020853766.