Steppin' Out

Cover Story

Members of the Shaolin Temple Monks (above) and (right) perform in 'Shaolin Kung Fu,' presnted by Chinese Performing Artists of America.

Going Global, Locally

Festival highlights some of Silicon Valley's diverse arts groups

By Heather Zimmerman

Arts Council Silicon Valley, the city of San Jose and three South Bay arts groups have teamed up for the Festival of Cultures, a weekend of multicultural performances.

The festival takes place March 23-25 at the California Theatre, 345 S. First St., San Jose.

Chinese Performing Artists of America open the festival on March 23, 8 p.m., with "Shaolin Kung Fu," a performance of the martial arts techniques of the Shaolin Temple monks. Performers from CPAA will also join the troupe for several dances.

Theater company Teatro Visión takes the stage on March 24, 8 p.m., with "¡Latinos Presente! A Celebration in Three Acts." The program includes a panel discussion about Latinos in the arts, and a concert by the band Son de Madera. The third act features Ricardo Salinas and Herbert Siguenza, members of the famed Chicano/Latino performance group Culture Clash, presenting excerpts from the group's 20 years of provocative theater.

Kaisahan of San Jose concludes the weekend on March 25, 3 p.m. with "Pagdiriwang!" a program celebrating the Filipino dance company's 25th anniversary. This gala includes appearances by Dingdong Avanzado and Jessa Zaragoza, music stars from the Philippines; San Francisco stand-up comics Thage and Jesse; soprano Stella Mendietta and tenor Enrico Saboren; and music and dance by the Kaisahan ensemble. A reception will follow.

Tickets are $30-$70 March 23;$20-$50 March 24;$15-$40 March 25 (an additional $15 donation for reception). Passes are also available for $50. For more infor-mation, call 408.286.1313 or www.arts council.org.