Milwaukee City Wire

About 390 students from 20 MPS schools will be participating in Cantos de las Américas, a musical tribute to education and a celebration of cultures, on Friday, May 10, at the Marcus Performing Arts Center in downtown Milwaukee. This year marks the largest participation ever in the event that has been honoring the diverse cultural backgrounds of Milwaukee Public Schools students since 1990.

Dr. Rocío Trejo, MPS Bilingual Curriculum Specialist, highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “Cantos de las Américas serves to showcase the identity and culture of MPS students through the arts. This promotes the learning and retention of the diverse cultural heritage students hold.” She also emphasized how the event strengthens students' capacity for learning by validating their culture, family, and community with pride.

The performances at Cantos de las Américas will encompass a variety of world cultures, including Dominican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Indian, and various regional traditions from Mexico. Dr. Trejo noted that many of the art forms being celebrated are blends of multiple cultures, showcasing the creativity and multiculturalism of MPS students.

Students from different schools will present a range of traditional and modern dances at the event. The audience can expect to see performances like Colombian cumbia, traditional dances such as La botella and El seis de los palitos, as well as more contemporary pieces set to songs like Limbo by Daddy Yankee and a medley of Bollywood songs.

The event will be hosted by Evelyn Orta-Villanueva and Eduardo García, both educators with extensive experience in bilingual education within MPS schools. A total of 20 schools will be participating in the event, including Longfellow School, South Division High School, Milwaukee Spanish Immersion School, and Rufus King International High School.

Dr. Trejo emphasized the collaborative efforts behind Cantos de las Américas, noting, “This celebration gives students the opportunity to perform in prestigious theaters, which builds their confidence.” The event, organized by the Milwaukee Public Schools Department of Bilingual Multicultural Education, aims to provide students with a platform to showcase their talents and celebrate their cultural heritage.

The Cantos de las Américas event will be held at the Marcus Performing Arts Center, located at 929 N. Water St., Milwaukee, starting at 6:30 p.m. on May 10.