Austin is set to become an even richer hub for cultural experiences thanks to an exciting new collaboration. Austin Opera and the Consulate General of Mexico in Austin have joined forces to present “Concerts at the Consulate,” a performance series designed to spotlight talented Latinx composers and performers while celebrating the diverse tapestry of Hispanic culture. This initiative promises to be a significant addition to Austin’s cultural scene, hosted at the welcoming space of the Austin Mexican Consulate.
Curated by the acclaimed Mexican mezzo-soprano and Austin resident, Claudia Chapa, “Concerts at the Consulate” is launching as a free series, making high-quality cultural events accessible to the wider community. The inaugural concert, a vibrant celebration of Mexican Independence Day, features the mezzo-soprano Stephanie Sanchez. This initial performance was captured at the spacious 26,000 square foot facilities of the Austin Mexican Consulate located on Ben White Boulevard in East Austin. It will be unveiled as a digital concert on October 1, 2021, accessible through Austin Opera’s website and social media channels as part of their Live from Indy Terrace digital platform, and also on the Consulate’s own streaming platforms, extending its reach to a global audience.
Looking beyond the digital premiere, subsequent events within the “Concerts at the Consulate” series are planned to be open to the public, offering in-person experiences alongside continued online availability. Each event is envisioned as more than just a musical performance. They will incorporate enriching discussions exploring the artistic and social context of the music, and importantly, will serve as a platform to promote cultural and social organizations that are making valuable contributions within Austin’s Latinx community.
The series boasts a diverse program, promising a captivating lineup of world-class Latinx singers, pianists, guitarists, and Mariachi groups. Expanding its community engagement, “Concerts at the Consulate” will also feature education programs specially designed for children, ensuring that the appreciation for Latinx arts and culture is nurtured in younger generations. The events are thoughtfully scheduled around significant dates in the Mexican calendar, further grounding the series in cultural relevance. The initial schedule included:
- October 1: Digital concert launch celebrating Mexican Independence Day with Stephanie Sanchez (recorded September 18).
- November 1: Día de los Muertos celebration featuring mezzo-soprano Vanessa Alonzo and Mariachi Trio Chapultepec.
- December 10: A Posadas celebration, marking a traditional festive event.
Anticipation is building for the announcement of the 2022 performance schedule, promising a continuing stream of rich cultural experiences at the Austin Mexican Consulate. “Concerts at the Consulate” is poised to become a cornerstone of Austin’s cultural landscape, offering a vibrant celebration of Latinx artistry and heritage for all to enjoy.
