Multicultural flavors, sounds

Staff Report

Beyond the Borders draws musicians, artists and plenty of people. Photo: Hugh McMillan, KP News

Longbranch Improvement Club will be the site for Beyond the Borders Arts and Music Festival Aug. 7 from noon to 6 p.m., and will feature music, art, and food from around the world. Admission is free, and the atmosphere is family-friendly.

Featured music will include Correo Aereo (traditional acoustic rhythms from South America), MB Orchestra (ancient and contemporary sounds from Egypt and the Middle East), Trombanga (Afro-Cuban and Latin Jazz), and Magical Strings, a local favorite, the Boulding family, features Celtic harp and dulcimer. Rhythm Intermission (drum ensemble) and the Washington Association of South Sound Ukulele Players WASSUP will provide entertainment between acts. Stage sound provided by DEF Productions.

There will be a juried Art Exhibit with a People's Choice Award. The works will represent a variety of styles by Two Waters Arts Alliance member artists. There will also be art and craft items for sale by local artists. More information is available at www.twowaters.org for artists that would like to participate.

Food from beyond the borders will be provided by Ali'i & Sumo's Hawaiian Grill, and “The Little Merc”. The Club will also have a Beer Garden featuring beers of the world, wines, and other beverages.

Key Pen Parks will have a children's area, where they can learn and play games from different countries. The Beyond the Borders Arts and Music Festival is designed to offer the local community a chance to experience the sounds, sights, and tastes of other cultures -  without a passport!

The event is co-sponsored by the Longbranch Improvement Club and the Two Waters Arts Alliance, with generous support from the Pierce County Arts Commission and Key Peninsula Parks. For more information call (253) 884-4807.