Established in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month acknowledged the multitude of contributions and influences that Hispanic Americans had and continue to have on United States culture, history, and achievements. Recognized annually from September 15 to October 15, every year, Ensemble Arts Philly recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month by highlighting the Latinx artists, creators, and community members who bring their passion, creativity, and talents to the Philadelphia region. This year, we asked the participants to answer one of three questions:
- How do you experience the transformative power of the arts?
- How do you see your craft/position affecting change in our society?
- What advice would you give to a young person coming up in your field?
“Take every opportunity to explore all of your passions, interests, and curiosities. Every experience in life can inform your creativity and open doors to possibilities you never dreamed possible.”
Enrico Lopez-Yañez
Conductor, A Very Philly Christmas
“The arts have this incredible power to connect people and I’m honored I get to experience that connection every night performing on stage. In my personal experience, the arts have shown me that anything is possible, and the biggest dreams can come true. As a first-generation artist it drives me, and I hope to inspire anyone to live their dreams.”
Jennifer Mariela Bermeo
Actress, WICKED National Tour
“It’s been my honor as a TV reporter and journalist to use my platform as a positive representation of the Latine/Hispanic community, but more importantly to highlight our community’s stories and culture. The Hispanic community of Greater Philadelphia is intersectional & diverse. Our contributions range from excellence in the arts, to role models in civic leadership, innovation in medicine, and everywhere in between. Sharing these stories and bringing our vibrant culture to people’s living rooms, mobile devices and television is a privilege I hold dear.”
Miguel Martinez-Valle
Reporter, NBC10/Telemundo62
“The arts bring people together like nothing else. It impacts those individuals sitting in the audience who experience anything - from a beautiful celebration to, sometimes, an honest reflection of our shared societal flaws. It also takes a village of incredibly dedicated and passionate artists, both on and off stage, to make the magic happen.”
Lannie Rubio
Actress, Mrs. Doubtfire First National Tour
“In my continued work as a performer and art teacher, I believe art, in particular music, is very important for the development of each person. In art there is not a single answer - there are several possibilities for each idea. What should a musical work be like? Or what a painting should be like? Creativity is something unique. It is like a fingerprint. It is basic for an individual to stimulate their creativity.”
Sigfrido Gamez
Director, Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México featured in Coco Live-to-Film Concert
“We as storytellers have the ability to change hearts and minds by breaking through century-old barriers. I do not take this task lightly! I hope that my presence in many of these creative platforms can serve as inspiration for other Latiné artists to do the same - resulting in a more empathetic society.”
Javier Ignacio
Actor, COMPANY
“The transformative power of the arts has impacted me in every aspect, enabling me to dream, grow, love, grieve, heal and stay nimble and curious as life unfolds building community while embracing experiences and learnings.”
Marángeli Mejía-Rabell
Co Founder & Partner, AFROTAINO; Festival Director, Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival; and Co Founder & Partner, GUSTO
“I would say to keep training. Do the work, allow yourself to be a storyteller, and bring the characters to life. Also, being who you are is more than enough when you walk in a room. You can’t control the outcome of an audition. You can only control what you prepare. So do the work and enjoy the journey.”
Alexander Mendoza
Actor, Disney’s Frozen