Music Box: Enjoy international culture at Smithsonian festival

Each year, the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is transformed into a magnificent international festival of music and culture focusing on three particular areas in the world.
At this year's Smithsonian Folklife Festival - my first Pick of the Week - audiences can absorb the art and culture of the Mekong River (which connects Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and the Yunnan province of China), Northern Ireland and the state of Virginia.

"Mekong River: Connecting Cultures" will examine the complex connections among the region's various ethnic groups, languages, traditions and practices along the Mekong River. Hear a variety of music from Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and the Yunnan province of China. The Flower Lantern Troupe from Yunnan will perform dances and music from several minority communities in China, the Bahnar gong and drum ensemble from the central highlands of Vietnam, experience traditional religious chants from Cambodia, Laos and Northern Thai folk music and dance.

Maryland Gazette, MD