MANILA, Philippines - Mallgoers will have the rare opportunity to enjoy authentic Mexican music and dance when the Grupo Achai mariachi ensemble performs at four SM Supermalls this month.
A joint project between the Embassy of Mexico and SM, the group will be performing at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall tomorrow, Sept. 15; The Block at SM City North EDSA, Sept. 17; and SM Southmall Food Street on Sept. 19. It will culminate in an exclusive reception at SM Megamall Event Center on Sept. 21. All performances will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. and are open to the public.
Grupo Achai is a set of students from the northwestern state of Sinaloa, Mexico, committed to preserving and promoting Mexican traditional music and dance. The group was founded in 1985 by Regino Lopez, a former dancer of the prestigious Mexico’s National Folkloric Ballet.
Consisting of a mariachi band, singers and dancers, it is composed of college students who joined the group in order to promote Mexican traditions. The group has travelled extensively throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America, showcasing performances that highlight Mexico’s rich musical tradition. This is Grupo Achai’s first performance in the Philippines.
Mariachi started out as a regional folk style known as “Son Jaliscience” in the central western part of Mexico. It was initially performed with just string instruments and musicians dressed in the white pants and shirts that peasant farmers used to wear.
The Grupo Achai performance is one of the many exciting events at SM Supermalls.