The country that is. On Sunday, Feb. 21, 2010 the Maryland Heights Centre will become a melting pot of world cultures at the ninth annual “Celebrate the World” International Festival. The event kicks off at noon with the “parade of nations” opening ceremony led by local scouting troops. Two stages will feature live music and dance from around the globe starting at 12:00 until 5 pm. Admission and parking are free.
New performers at this year’s festival include Samba Bom (Brazilian percussion, singing, and dance), Banyan Dance Theatre (Haitian dance), Keith Jozsef (Cultural magician), Armen Ovchiyev (Russian accordion and song), and Joia (World Percussion). Several popular groups from past years will also be on the bill, including the Mayer School of Irish Dance and the Shaolin Loahan Pai Lion Dance Troupe.
In keeping with the tradition started in 2008, this year’s “spotlight country” will be Turkey. Special emphasis will be given to this nation that bridges Europe and Asia, including a whole slate of events in the demonstration room and booths selling handmade Turkish jewelry and Turkish baklava.
“We are working closely with the Turkish American Cultural Alliance or TACA in St. Louis to highlight Turkish culture,” said Paul C. Notaro of the Maryland Heights Cultural Arts Commission.
“In addition to decorating the Maryland Heights Centre lobby with Turkish flags and tulips, TACA will host a series of presentations highlighting the distinctive traditions of Turkey such as Henna night, Backgammon, and the preparation of Turkish Coffee.” Group Anatolia will also introduce festival goers to Turkish flute and string instruments on both stages.
Once again, the festival will offer an international marketplace, where vendors from a number of different nations will be selling jewelry, crafts, artwork and other original items.
And of course, the day wouldn’t be complete without the delectable culinary delights of the “Taste of the World” refreshment area. Be sure to bring a few dollars to sample dishes from India, Argentina, Italy, central Africa and more.
Sponsors for this year’s International Festival include the Maryland Heights Cultural Arts Commission, the City of Maryland Heights and the Parks and Recreation Department. Donors to the event include Ranken Jordan Pediatric Specialty Hospital, Pattonville Parents as Teachers, Saint Louis Art Museum and the St. Louis County Library—all hosting special activities for youngsters and their parents in the children’s area.
This indoor festival attracts over 2000 people and attendance continues to grow each year. Volunteers and sponsors are still needed for the festival, so please call 314-738-2559 for more information about these special opportunities. A complete performance schedule and vendor listing will be available soon at www.marylandheights.com.
Full details of this event are available at their Facebook event page.
