CORONADO — Imagine the graceful flutter of a Chinese fan juxtaposed against a fiery flamenco stomp, or the fluid shimmy of a hip followed by the rhythmic beat of African drums. Experience the beauty and passion of the world at Nations of San Diego International Dance Festival (Nations) on Friday, February 10, at 8:00 pm, Saturday, February 11, at 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm, and Sunday, February 12, at 2:00 pm at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado. There is also a special performance for students from throughout the county on Friday, February 10, at 10:30 am. Nations has declared Sunday, February 12 Girl Scout Day. Troops from throughout San Diego and Imperial Counties are welcome to attend and learn more about the artistic diversity that flourishes in our region.
Now in year 18, Nations brings traditional dancers from over 15 cultures together in a state-of-the-art theater for a weekend of magical performances rarely seen together in one setting. Over 150 dancers and musicians from every continent share dance traditions that transport audiences to exotic lands for a taste of authentic art forms. Also be prepared for spontaneous eruptions of dance during intermission and after the show when cross-cultural free styling often takes place.
The mission of Nations is to present the ethnic dance traditions alive in the community. This year the festival will showcase Chinese dance to celebrate the commitment of San Diego’s Chinese community to cultural tradition. Dance groups include Blue Ming Chinese Dancers of San Diego, Moonlight Chinese Dance Group, San Diego Chinese Folk Dance Ensemble and SilkRoad Dancers. Each group represents a different region in China and a thriving local cultural community. These dancers may be the parents, doctors, lawyers, scientists, or teachers that make up our community by profession, but they also commit hours of practice to perfecting and passing on the dance traditions of their heritage. Audiences will be transfixed by the costumes, narrative and beauty of these varied dances representing China.
Weekend “travelers” will also experience dance traditions from Brazil, India, Ireland, Mexico, the Middle East, the Philippines, Spain, and more! Dancers representing Scotland and New Zealand also return this year. Nations promises a full passport of international music and movement.
Attendees desiring a memento of the weekend may browse the internationally flavored bazaar featuring art, sculpture and clothing from faraway lands presented by “Explore Inspiration.” “Beads for Life” will also be on hand with beautiful beaded jewelry made out of recycled paper created by Ugandan women. Proceeds from the jewelry translate into income, food, medicine, school fees and hope for the Ugandan communities where these artisans live.
Nations is produced by the Coronado School of the Arts Foundation and proudly sponsored by the Coronado Tourism Improvement District.
For tickets and more information about Nations, visit www.nationsdancefestival.com .
