Free Piano Recitals, Dance Workshops, and a Juan Luis Guerra Tribute — Your May Culture Calendar

Looking for something to do beyond the usual café circuit? The University of Cuenca just released its May cultural calendar, and it's stacked — concerts, workshops, art exhibitions, and even yoga sessions, running through May 29.

Here's what's worth marking:

This Weekend

• Juan Luis Guerra Sinfónico — The University Symphony Orchestra and Polyphonic Choir perform a symphonic tribute through May 9 at Teatro Carlos Cueva Tamariz, 8:00 PM. Tickets: $10 general, $5 students.

• Latitudes of Literature — A reading and conversation group exploring Latin American literature. May 9, 10:30 AM at Casa Rivera.

Next Week

• German Pianist Robert Aust — A free masterclass on May 12 at Campus Yanuncay (10:00 AM), followed by a free recital on May 13 at Teatro Carlos Cueva Tamariz (8:00 PM). Don't sleep on this one.

• Contemporary Dance Workshop — "Dance, emotion and expression in movement" with instructor Nathaly Castro Reyes. Runs May 12-26, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:00-6:00 PM at Casa de los Arcos. Eight sessions total.

Mid-Month

• Young Soloists Concert — The University Symphony Orchestra showcases emerging talent. May 15, 8:00 PM, Teatro Carlos Cueva Tamariz. Free admission.

• Movement and Wellness — Bhakti yoga, tai chi, energetic dances, and sound therapy with Illari Armonía Consciente. May 20, 10:00 AM, Casa de los Arcos. Registration required.

• Art Exhibition Closing — "Bitácoras de mediación – pedagogía en proceso" closes at the Museo Universitario on May 20 at 7:00 PM. Free.

Late May

• Choral Concert — The Coro Polifónico performs at Auditorio Balzay on May 21 at 7:00 PM. Free.

• Interactive Audiovisual Installation — "Aestus" by Francisco Ordóñez at Casa de los Arcos, May 29 at 6:00 PM. Free.

Most of these are free or under $10. The Robert Aust recital and Young Soloists concert are the standouts if you like classical. The dance workshop is a great option if you want something hands-on over multiple weeks.

Source: El Mercurio