International performing and visual artist Fernando Allende has returned to the valley. He’ll be performing Wednesday at the Belly Up on behalf of the local nonprofit English In Action.
For Allende, communication is the key to connecting the diverse voices that make up this place he calls home. But there are some community members who still need access to what he considers the number one tool used to communicate.
“And that tool is the language,” he said.
Allende and English In Action based in El Jebel have paired up to put on the first annual American Dreamer Award Gala. Tonight, he and his band will communicate with audiences through music by playing a tribute to the mariachi style at Belly Up, Aspen.
Right now there are 100 people in line hoping to receive tutoring from the nonprofit. Funds raised at the gala will go to expanding the nonprofit’s growth to reflect the community’s needs. Allende said the relationships that come from tutoring are productive for everyone.
“They start like coach and student, and then all of a sudden they become friends, and then all of a sudden they do business together,” said Allende. “We find out that all this converges and becoming one.”
A reception will take place at 6:30 p.m., with concert doors opening at 8 p.m. For more information, visit bellyupaspen.com.
