A Lao culture dancer and singer, Choummaly dances in traditional, folk, old and modern styles. She has been dancing and singing since she was five years old. Choummaly was trained and taught by multiple teachers, but mostly taught by one of the last Lao royal dancers and teachers, named Chaiphet.
A report exploring the effects of arts education in prison
98 artists, culture bearers, and organizations awarded statewide
Jose Trejo Maya is a remnant of the Nahuatlacah oral tradition, a tonalpouhque Mexica, and a commoner from the lowlands (i.e. Mexico) from a time and place that no longer exists. His poetry has gained recognition and been published in various countries, including the UK, US, India, Spain, Australia, Argentina,…
Acacia is a cultural preservationist, traditional arts advocate/ musician and keeper of traditional histories. Through oral testimony and inclusive, cultural tourism, she brings together elders and youth alike to share in the oft overlooked and undertold stories of communities of color. She believes that community education is a must, and…
For the 23rd year of the program, 24 new pairs were awarded
Makeda Kumasi (MFA / M.Ed) is the founder of WE 3 PRODUCTIONS, as well as the co-founder and artistic director of The Umoja Ensemble of the Inland Empire. Along with being a featured performer on stage and T.V., Kumasi has danced for two prominent Southern California based African dance ensembles,…
Kamini is an Indian Classical Hindustani Vocalist, composer and teacher based in Los Angeles area. She likes to incorporate various global sounds into her music. She truly believes that music unites and brings us closer. Her journey of music was initiated by her mother. Kamini spent over a decade learning…
For over four decades, proud daughter of Oaxaqueños, Maria Luisa Colmenarez has played a large role in ensuring Mexican folk dance remains accessible to the community while advocating for a larger presence in the performing arts space. She currently serves as the executive director of Danzantes Unidos de California, a…
Le damos la bienvenida a César Castro, nuevo coordinador de programas de ACTA