Join us for a vibrant day filled with rhythm, movement, culture, and creativity inspired by our exhibitions, Mestre Didi: Spiritual Form and Candida Alvarez: Circle, Point, Hoop. Experience the spirit of these exhibitions through live music, storytelling, dance workshops, guided tours, and hands-on art-making activities for all ages.
The celebration culminates in El Museo’s Teatro with a special performance by powerhouse Brazilian vocalist and songwriter Luciane Dom and her dynamic band, joined by eight-time GRAMMY Award-winning pianist, composer, and bandleader Arturo O’Farrill. Together, they will honor the artistic legacy of Mestre Didi—Afro-Brazilian artist, writer, and spiritual leader.
This performance is presented in collaboration with Belongó with support from the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation.
FREE Event | Register here >.
SCHEDULE OF THE DAY:
Exhibition Tours
12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, and 3:15 PM
Meet us in the galleries for an engaging tour of our current exhibitions on view Mestre Didi: Spiritual Form and Candida Alvarez: Circle, Point, Hoop. Guided by El Museo’s Museum educator, delve into the two exhibitions and explore the themes of color, shape, and spirit.
Art Workshop | Sintiendo (Feeling) Color
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Join El Museo’s Museum educators in the courtyard for a fun art making workshop that explores the use of line, shape and color reflected in the exhibition Candida Alvarez: Circle, Point, Hoop. Create your own collage that reflects you and your spirit for the day!
Art Workshop (Ages 12 +) | Mosaic Making with Manny Vega
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Join artist Manny Vega to explore mosaic making! For adults and teens, become an artist apprentice! Help Manny Vega and contribute to a future public art piece.
Art Workshop (Ages 5 +) | Mosaic Making with Manny Vega
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Children are invited to explore mosaics by creating their own mini mosaics! Please note this activity involves the use of small glass objects and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
Storytelling | Let’s Make that Drum Talk with Bombazo Dance Co.
12:30 PM & 2:30 PM
Join author and dancer Milteri Tucker Concepción for an engaging storytelling session featuring her colorful children’s book Bomba Puertorriqueña. The book explores the history of Bomba y Plena—Puerto Rico’s oldest musical and dance tradition, which originated in the 17th century among enslaved and free people of color working on coastal plantations.
During this interactive reading, Milteri will bring the story to life through rhythm and movement. Come listen to the beats of Bomba and dance along!
Milteri Tucker Concepción was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She is the founder and executive director of Bombazo Dance Co., Inc., and is a professional dancer, choreographer, scholar, and dance educator.
Music & Movement | Samba Workshop with Capoeira Arts Dance
1:15 PM
Step into the rhythm of Brazil with this high-energy Samba workshop — open to all levels and perfect for anyone who loves to dance or just wants to try something new! Participants will learn the basics of Samba no Pé, the lively solo style often seen in Rio’s famous Carnival parades. The workshops will break down fundamental footwork, hip movements, and body isolations, gradually building up to full combinations set to infectious Brazilian beats.
Music & Movement | Capoeira Demo with Capoeira Arts Dance
2:15 PM
Experience the dynamic fusion of martial arts, music, and dance in this 15-minute Capoeira demonstration. Originating in Brazil, Capoeira combines powerful kicks, fluid movements, and rhythmic acrobatics performed in a circle called a roda, accompanied by traditional instruments like the berimbau and atabaque.
Capoeiristas will showcase a mix of foundational movements partner interactions, and gravity-defying flips, all timed to live music and call-and-response singing. Get ready for an energetic and captivating display of Afro-Brazilian heritage in motion.
Music & Movement | Capoeira Workshop with Capoeira Arts Dance
3:15 PM
Join us for an engaging and interactive Capoeira workshop, open to all skill levels! Whether you’re a complete beginner or just curious, this session offers a fun and accessible introduction to Capoeira — the Afro-Brazilian art form that blends martial arts, dance, music, and culture.
Participants will learn basic movements like the ginga, kicks, and escapes, along with simple partner exercises and playful sequences. You’ll also get a taste of Capoeira’s rich musical side by clapping rhythms and trying call-and-response songs used in the roda (circle).
Concert | Luciane Dom presented by Belongó in collaboration with El Museo del Barrio
Doors open: 3:30 PM; Performance Starts 4:00 PM
Powerhouse Brazilian vocalist and songwriter Luciane Dom and her dynamic band will be joined by eight-time GRAMMY Award-winning pianist, composer, and bandleader Arturo O’Farrill to help celebrate the artistic legacy of Mestre Didi. This performance is presented by Belongó with support from the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation.