FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 14, 2021

Media Contact: Angel Waldron, 301-446-3311

M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County Announces Activities for

Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Riverdale, MD – In celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month, M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County, Arts and Cultural Heritage Division is hosting an array of events throughout the month of May.  These events feature virtual dance and music performances that highlight the diverse traditions of South Asia, China, the Pacific Islands, and more.

This year is especially critical in honoring the rich culture and heritage of the Asian and Pacific Islander community as an effort to denounce the ever-growing increase in incidents related to anti-Asian racism in our country. In a recently released statement, The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission stated, in part,  “We stand in solidarity with our Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) coworkers, friends, and families, our Montgomery County and Prince George’s County communities, and our nation in condemning these violent attacks. … We stand united and determined to support our most vulnerable communities and celebrate the contributions of the AAPI community to the history, culture and achievements of our country and our bi-county region.” View the statement in its entirety here.

Throughout May, journey with us and learn more about the Asian and Pacific Islander culture. Scheduled activities include:

Friday, April 30, 8 pm    

Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Opening Reception (virtual)

Celebrate the rich traditions of Asia and the Pacific Islands and the astonishing diversity of Asian/Pacific cultural expressions that thrive in America. Grab a delicious boxed meal and pick up a craft kit featuring an Asian-themed art project for children and family at the Prince George’s Ballroom on Friday, April 30 from 5 to 7:30 pm. (A ticket is required to pick up a boxed meal prepared by B. Lin Caterers. Reserve tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/myevent?eid=145533401321.) Head home and settle in to enjoy Asian and Pacific Islander culture via Facebook Live @ArtsPGParks.  The celebration features Chinese dances and music by Ling Tang, Thai dance by Somapa Thai Dancers, and Bollywood dances by the Teen World Dance Company of Seber Method Academy. Close the evening’s festivities by learning Polynesian and Hawaiian dances with Kinikia. Live Stream @ArtsPGParks Facebook

Friday, May 7, 12 noon 

Full-filled lunchtime series presents, Huilan Chen 

Be transported to East Asia during your lunch hour with traditional Chinese string instruments.  Join Judy Chen on the Guzheng and Liming Huang on the ErHu as they play expressive and beautiful melodies.  A transformative and elegant performance for all to enjoy. Live Stream @ArtsPGParks Facebook

Friday, May 14, 12 noon             

Full-filled lunchtime series presents, Alif Laila

Travel to South Asia with this mystical, musical performance of traditional Indian music.  Join Alif Laila, an internationally renowned Indian sitar player and founder of the music school Sitar Niketan.  Accompanied by Haroon Alam on the Tabla and John Carr on the Tanpura, do not miss your chance to experience the mesmerizing resonance of the sitar. Live Stream @ArtsPGParks Facebook

Friday, May 21, 12 noon              

Full-filled lunchtime series presents, Meki Toalepai

Experience the excitement and energy of native Polynesian music, dance and arts with Meki’s Tamure Polynesian Arts Group. Centuries-old traditions are honored in every performance. Audience participation is encouraged at home. Join the fun and get ready to dance along to this vibrant Polynesian performance. Live Stream @ArtsPGParks Facebook

For more information on virtual events, visit arts.pgparks.com.

About the Department

The M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation delivers an award-winning park system through progressive, innovative leadership and a commitment to the community and the environment in Prince George’s County. For more on the Department of Parks and Recreation, visit www.pgparks.com and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, PhotoShelter, and Instagram. The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities in all programs and services. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation. 

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