While the weather caused the band to set up on the stage inside for the performance, the atmosphere was filled with bright music and accomplished talent.  Guests could purchase food from local food trucks: Sliders from New Ulm and Taquiera Las 3 Luna’s and children purchased pan flutes as mementos of the festivities.  

Alma Andina is a nine-piece band from the Twin Cities area and includes members from Chile, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the USA. Unexpected musical sounds included the pan flutes and lots of percussion instruments.  A few numbers also included traditional dancers with vibrantly colored costumes. 

Ina Yukka, originally from Chile, highlighted some traditional instruments from South America and also told stories about the culture and the beliefs represented through song and dance.

With the success of Ballet Folklorico Mexico Azteco in March 2023, members of the theater’s governing board have been exploring different ways to host cultural events. 

Traditional dancers in bright dramatic costumes accompanied some of the musical numbers. 

State Street Theater Co board members, Dan Kalk and Cecelia Tojo led this most recent effort and see there being many opportunities in the future.

“We have the platform to bring these types of cultural events to the community and plan to do that consistently,” said Dan Kalk.

According to Nate Sperl, sound technician and technical manager at the theater, events like this “give an opportunity to show culture that people don’t get to see in person”. 

Kalk said “we aren’t sure if these types of events are annual or part of a series but we are committed to representing the diversity of the region.”

The next events coming up at State Street Theater Co., will be Lightfoot of the Rockies, Gordon Lightfoot Tribute Show with Eric Elison on Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1.  

Sunday's event featured lively music, storytelling and introduction of aspects of Andes culture including folklore and traditional musical instruments.