April 13, 2005

Olmos highlight of Cinco de Mayo celebration

Sacramento State is set to host a diverse series of events to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican American holiday marking the victory of the Mexican Army over the French at the Battle of Puebla on the morning of May 5, 1862. Among the performers is Latino actor, producer and civic activist Edward James Olmos.

Edward James Olmos

The celebration opens with "Multicultural Night 2" featuring performances by campus and community groups representing a world of ethnicities and cultures. The event will happen from 7 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, April 28 in the University Union Ballroom.

Portland, Oregon theatrical troupe Teatro Milagro will contribute to Cinco de Mayo festivities with a performance of Cuentame Coyote at noon, Tuesday, May 3 in the University Redwood Room. The bilingual play brings folktales of the American Southwest to life as it follows two Mexican orphan girls who have lost their way in the Southwestern desert.

All-acoustic ensemble Augustin Lira and Alma will perform music influenced by a variety of Latino cultures at noon, Wednesday, May 4 at Serna Plaza. The group features original compositions by Lira and presents works by composers from throughout Latin America.

A highlight of the celebration will be a lecture by Olmos. Many know Olmos for his Oscar-nominated role as determined math teacher Jaime Escalante in the film Stand and Deliver, but he also works the college lecture circuit speaking at about 150 institutions each year. Olmos will discuss his vision of improving the world by working together-"We Are All in the Same Gang"- at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 5 in the University Union Ballroom. Rondalla Sentimiento Romantico will perform classical Mexican bolero music prior to the talk at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are $12 general, $8 for Sacramento State students, and available from the CSUS Ticket Office at (916) 278-4323 or Tickets.com.

For more information call (916) 278-6997.

Media assistance is available by contacting University public affairs at (916) 278-6156.

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