ROCKLAND — Mexican mariachi singer, musician and dancer Veronica Robles and her band will perform traditional mariachi songs as well as music from other Latin American countries in their performance at the Strand Theatre on Friday, April 4, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are on a sliding scale. 

Originating in the rural areas of western Mexico, mariachi is a traditional musical genre deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Mexico.

"It embodies the heart, soul, and history of this proud nation – incorporating strains from indigenous music, the classical music of Spain, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms," said a news release. "With its distinctive blend of brass, strings, and vocals, this unifying art form has become synonymous with both celebration and poignant moments."

Veronica Robles is a mariachi singer, musician and Latin American folkloric dancer and choreographer by trade but has become a cultural icon for Latinos in Boston, according to the release.

"She has effectively utilized the power of the arts and culture to bring the community together by raising awareness on the importance of diversity and she has empowered the youth by employing them and teaching them about their roots and cultures," said the release.

Robles is the co-founder and director of the Veronica Robles Cultural Center (VROCC), which supports cultural programming and economic growth in East Boston, and has received countless awards and recognitions. She was recently named by Univision Network as one of the top 10 most influential Latinos nationwide for her work as co-founder and director of the VROCC. In 2021, the Institute of Non-Profit Practice presented her with the Changemakers Award. And in November 2019 she received the Ohtli Award – one of the highest and most prestigious distinctions given by the Government of Mexico. This award honors people who have dedicated most of their lives and careers to “blazing a trail” abroad for younger generations of Mexicans and Mexican-Americans as they strive to achieve their dreams. Ohtli is a Nahuatl word that means “pathway.” 

As part of the Strand Family Series, this show is made possible thanks to supporting sponsors: the Rockland Harbor Hotel, OUT Maine, and Allen Insurance and Financial, as well as grant funding from Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust and Mattina R. Proctor Foundation.

Veronica Robles’ Mariachi Band is made possible with grant funding from West Bay Rotary and the New England States Touring program of the New England Foundation for the Arts, made possible with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts Regional Touring Program and the six New England state arts agencies. 

This show is appropriate for all ages.

Running time is 60 minutes.

Tickets are on a sliding scale: $0-20. To buy tickets, or for more information, visit www.rocklandstrand.com or call (207) 594-0070. 

The Strand Theatre is located at 345 Main Street, Rockland.