Calpulli Mexican Dance
Aloha Hula dancers
Weekly performances begin Tuesday, July 8, 2025
The New Rochelle Public Library (1 Library Plaza, New Rochelle, NY 10801) and Friends of the Library are thrilled to present the renowned International Music and Dance Festival again this summer. From July 8 through August 12, beat the heat in the comfortable, air-conditioned Ossie Davis Theater every Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm with vibrant performances representing cultures from around the globe.
This free six-week festival offers something for everyone, with a diverse lineup of music and dance traditions sure to dazzle audiences of all ages. Attendees can expect captivating performances, bright costumes, and unique insights into the rich cultural heritage behind each show.
“For more than two decades, the International Music and Dance Festival has brought the world to New Rochelle through the universal language of performance,” said Tobe Sevush, Programming Coordinator at the New Rochelle Public Library. “This year’s lineup continues the tradition with a vibrant mix of music and dance that reflects the many cultures and backgrounds that make our community so unique.”
The festival kicks off on July 8 with a Kaleidoscope of Eastern Europe Music and Dance. Travel with us through the heart of Eastern Europe! Dazzling costume changes, soaring vocals, and live music set the stage—and you may find yourself dancing alongside our performers. Get ready for an evening of vibrant melodies and high-energy steps!
On July 15, feel the island breeze! Our Aloha Hula Spectacular dancers bring the spirit of the Pacific to life with graceful movements, colorful attire, and the stories behind each step. Perfect for all ages—come enjoy a little aloha magic!
On July 22, prepare to be mesmerized by Aszmara and Souren Baronian’s Transition Ensemble. The world-renowned dance artist Aszmara will grace the stage in exquisite costumes, accompanied by the folkloric music of Armenia, Turkey, and Egypt, performed by master Armenian musicians Robert Boghosian on the oud, Souren Baronain on clarinet, kaval & dooduk, and Mal Stein on doumbek.
Enjoy the infectious Cuban rhythms of Salsa, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha, Bolero—and more on July 29 when flutist, vocalist, and composer Carlos Jimenez leads his Mambo Orchestra in an irresistible concert of Latin and Jazz rhythms.
On August 5, join two-time Latin Grammy nominee Araceli Poma for a deep dive into Afro-Peruvian music and dance. Explore traditional instruments—like quijada, cajita, and cajón—then try your footwork with classic dance styles such as marinera, festejo, landó, and tondero.
The series culminates on August 12 with a grand finale by participants in the Calpulli Summer Mexican Dance workshops. Adorned in colorful costumes, dancers of all ages will celebrate the rich and diverse regional dance traditions of Mexico’s cultural history. This program will take place outside on the Library patio, adjacent to Ruby Dee Park.
With its multi-generational appeal and unique immersion into the arts and traditions of diverse cultures, the International Music and Dance Festival promises an enriching experience for all who attend. Admission is free, but registration is requested for each event.
Register online at bit.ly/IMD_2025 (find the event on the calendar, click and proceed with registration) or call 914-813-3706.
