Noche Iluminada: A Tribute to César Chávez
Chandler City Hall | Courtyard
Join us for Noche Iluminada, a celebration honoring the life and legacy of César Chávez. Dress in white and step into a luminous night filled with culture, art, music, and community connection. From live performances to interactive art and cuisine, this evening brings together heritage, hope, and the spirit of unity. Together, we shine a light on the power of community, the courage of Chávez and people everywhere, and the beauty of cultural celebration.
Photo credit: © Photographer Victor Aleman, Courtesy of the National Chavez Center Archives.
Agenda
6 p.m. | Check-in begins
6:30 p.m. | Official City Welcome
6:45 p.m. | Hosted Dinner
7:20 p.m. | Honoring Alberto Esparza: Vice Mayor’s Comments & Award Presentation
7:30 p.m. | Tribute Segment by Chandler Education Foundation
7:45 p.m. | Performance by Grupo Bella
8:15 p.m. | Presentation by LivWell Foundation
8:25 p.m. | Performance by Grupo Bella
8:50 p.m. | Closing Remarks
Attire: White Cocktail
Registration is free but required.
Priority will be given to those who reside in Chandler.
Grupo Bella
Formed in 2011, Grupo Bella is fronted by Grammy award winning vocalist and Grammy nominated composer Vanessa Ramirez. As founder of the group, Vanessa serves as lead vocalist, jarana/guitarist, and musical director. Her original compositions distinctly reflect her Mexican heritage and tell the stories of a young woman living in a modern and diverse Los Angeles. As an independent ethnomusicologist, Vanessa frequently travels throughout Mexico with Grupo Bella harpist and vocalist Michael Tejada, researching folk music and uncovering new influences for original compositions. The life of these compositions is supported by the likes of Diana McConnell (guitarron), and Maria Reyes (vocals/violin/melodica).
The group boasts an often forgotten aspect of musicianship in modern music: being a truly talented live performance and touring group, which is where they shine most. Grupo Bella's live resume includes numerous shows in the United States and Mexico.
Grupo Bella is currently working on their second album, consisting of all original songs composed by Vanessa Ramirez.
She describes the project as "a unique experience of blending the old Musica De Raiz with new and fresh sounds that are inspired by our daily lives as young multicultural musicians in Los Angeles.
Located in the vibrant center of Downtown Chandler and at the core of the entertainment district, Chandler Center for the Arts is an engaging, welcoming, innovative space serving our diverse community.
Through the generosity of our donor community, the Chandler Education Foundation supports the growth of students, teachers, and staff across our district.
The Chandler Museum is a cultural destination unlike any other with engaging, community-focused programs and forums, as well as world-class traveling exhibits.
LivWell Foundation is a licensed outpatient treatment center that offers services to school age students afterschool and weekends. All services aid clients in living healthy lives for themselves, their family and their communities.
