Music and the Arts in Panama
by Sandra Snyder
The cultural season is underway in Panama and with just a little research you can find some wonderful things to enjoy. Start with the Asociacion Nacional de Conciertos (National Concert Association). The 2007 International Concert Season has world-class chamber artists and soloists and the season line up features:
Pacifica String Quartet, June 7; Brasil Guitar Duo, July 17; Ibert Camara Woodwind Quintet, August 7; Soo Bae, cello, September 25 and Alberto Nose, Piano, October 5. Season membership is only $120.00 and family and corporate memberships are available.
The proceeds from these concerts, as well as other donations are invested in youth educational programs in Panama. The Association hosts educational opportunities for young music students including an instrument bank, scholarships and a yearly Music Camp with a follow-up orchestral program. Call 214-4848 or 214-7236, or email conciertos@conciertospanama.org. Check the web site at www.conciertospanama.org for more information.
If Jazz is more your style, watch the local papers for listings of Jazz concerts on Wednesday nights in Casa Góngora (Telefono: 506-5836) in Casco Viejo. There is dancing to Salsa on Friday nights at the Granada Hotel. Platea (formerly, Take Five), another Jazz bar in el Casco Antiguo, brings live Jazz from Panama’s finest, weekly Wednesday – Saturday evenings.
SIETE magazine, included weekly in the Panama America, covers upcoming events from movies, to art exhibits, book reviews, theater and expositions. La Prensa’s Mosaico magazine weekly and the Vivir section daily likewise cover what’s happening on the cultural scene.
Panama has a wonderful variety of Art Galleries around the City. They regularly hold openings of new shows and everyone is invited. Visit a gallery and sign up on their mailing list to be personally invited or just watch the papers for the announcements.
The Theater Guild of Ancon’s new season has started and the next production is in the making. If you missed Honk Jr. in May, check out the web site today for details on upcoming productions: www.ancontheater.com. You can volunteer to work behind the scenes, on the stage or buy a season ticket and join the audience. But don’t limit yourself because of language; attend any one of the several other local theaters - Teatro La Quadra, Teatro en Circulo, Teatro ABA- and enjoy the production in Spanish. (www.teatrodepanama.com).
Pick up a copy of Expresiones, Guia de arte y Cultura (email: expresiones@gmail.com, 6619-6950) to check out a great variety of cultural events happening in Panama.
Sandra T. Snyder - Author of Living in Panama, which includes a listing of Art Galleries and Theaters around the City and around the Country.
© Sandra T. Snyder
Author of Living in Panama and other books
Panama Eagle, June 2007 |
