Casa Boricua de Meriden, the Meriden Public Schools and the Disaster Relief Committee of Meriden present a music-filled Disaster Relief Fundraiser.
The program starts 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8 at Maloney High School, 121 Gravel St., Meriden.
The Mariachi Mexico Antiguo, with special guest artist Marissa, the Latin Heartbeat Orchestra and D.J. Pedro Valentin will be on stage. Comedian Ángel Rentas will be the emcee.
Established in 2010 by former and current students the Connecticut Valley, Mariachi Mexico Antiguo is comprised of the most dedicated and talented musicians, each with experience spanning at least five years.
Based in Hartford, Mariachi Mexico Antiguo has traveled to Arizona, California, New Mexico, Utah, New York, Colorado, Washington, Wyoming and Las Vegas. They have also worked with renowned artists as Beatriz Adriana, Graciela Beltran, Gildardo Alvarez, Jesus "Chuy" Guzman and Juan Valentin.
In August 2015, Mariachi Mexico Antiguo had the honor of accompanying Placido Domingo at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
Special guest Marissa's versatility, whether in English or Spanish, is sure to entertain any crowd, big or small. Her album "Ayer y Hoy" is a nostalgic work that encompasses Latin, romantic songs from the '70s with a modern, contemporary flair bringing memories and nostalgia to a vast audience.
Marissa was Miss Connecticut 2001, has performed on the Miss America stage and in 2014 won Premio Paoli- Artist of the Year on her first album.
The Latin Heartbeat Orchestra's commitment to sustaining its cultural music has been the driving force behind this talented ensemble of dedicated musicians.
This group has taken pride in being recognized as a preservation band, and the cultural responsibility that comes with it. With its own unique style and sound this orchestra’s impressive resume continues to grow.
They have had the honor of participating in major events at some of New England’s premier venues, such as: Foxwoods' B.B. King Lounge and the MGM Grand; the Connecticut Salsa Festival – five years in a row by popular demand; the Boston Salsa Congress; and the Providence Rhode Island WaterFire Festival, where they performed before an audience of over 5,000 people.
A donation of $15 is asked for each ticket. There will be food available for purchase, raffles and a silent auction. Local artists will also have their work on display and available for purchase. The public is asked to bring an unwrapped toy to the event to provide children in Puerto Rico and in Meriden with gifts for holiday season.
Order tickets at Eventbrite online or through Casa Boricua de Meriden, Valentin Karate, La Amistad Bakery and the Meriden Public School central office.