January 1- 7, 2004
mixpicks
Fiesta De Los Reyes
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Around this time of year, many cultural institutions decide to hibernate until spring. But over at the Walt Whitman Arts Center, now's when one of their most intriguing projects of the year takes place. Through a collaboration between the organizers and the office of Camden's City Council president, Angel Fuentes, this week sees the Fiesta de los Reyes, or Feast of the Three Kings. A cultural celebration as much as a religious commemoration, Three Kings' Day will be marked by the Latino arts community. A traditional Puerto Rican parranda, with a procession of singers and revelers, will enliven the event; meanwhile, there'll be visual art on display by artists including Marta Sanchez, Gil Gonzalez and Cesar Viveros. Writers Magda Martinez, Catalina Rios, Julia Lopez and Juan Gutierrez will read poetry, and Bomba y Plena dance group, named after two types of traditional Afro-Rican music, will bring some vibrant color and sensational rhythmics to the stage. Just as the day's tradition celebrates the arrival of the three kings with their well-chosen gifts, so this week's event brings the talents and skills of this tight-knit arts community very much to the fore.
Fiesta De Los Reyes, Mon., Jan. 5, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Walt Whitman Arts Center, Second and Cooper sts., Camden, N.J., 856-964-8300.
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