School of the Arts | College of Liberal Arts
In this compelling and award-winning production, creator-choreographer-director Vanessa Sanchez and the all-female cast of La Mezcla employ dance, music, spoken word, video and percussive dialogue to recount a pivotal part of Chicanx history: the Pachuca Era, punctuated by the 1943 Zoot Suit Riots in Los Angeles.
In a twist, the show focuses on the female, rather than male, experience of pachuquísmo. This 1940’s Mexican American counterculture in the United States, associated with zoot suit fashion, jazz and swing music, emerged during a time when this marginalized community was fighting for rights and equality in the States.
In portraying the not-often-told history of the Pachucas, Pachuquísmo highlights and juxtaposes the duality of their culture through live music and dance.
Zapateado and Veracruz state folk music symbolize the Mexican heritage of these protesting women while jazz music and tap dance represent their American experience. The result is impactful.
Don't miss: A pre-performance celebration begins at 6 p.m. with lowriders on display, music, food and beverages from La Favorita, Pelon Micheladas and Rin Tin Taps. La Mezcla will take the stage at 7:30 p.m., under the stars.
About the venue: This is the only concert of the season held at Robert Z. Hawkins Amphitheater, located at 6000 Bartley Ranch Road, Reno, NV 89511.
Free event: Dance Workshop with La Mezcla Friday, September 15, 5 - 6:30 p.m. Redfield Proscenium Theatre, Church Fine Arts, University of Nevada, Reno
Join Vanessa Sanchez and members of La Mezcla for an introduction to Zapateado Jarocho, traditional footwork from Veracruz, Mexico. This class features live music and draws on the tradition of the Son Jarocho Fandango, a community gathering of music and dance. Dancers of all levels will learn traditional rhythms and footwork on a tarima, a wooden box built to amplify the percussive sounds from the footwork. All levels welcome, hard soled shoes recommended. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required.
Sign up to volunteer and see the concert for free!