DREAM UP EVENTS
JANUARY 23, 2025
“ Investment in the Arts is the Foundation for Building Vibrant Communities.” – Americans for the Arts
We are witnessing an alarming rise in racist, anti-immigrant, anti-Hispanic, and antisemitic hate crimes across Massachusetts.
Fiesta de la Simcha was created as a powerful response to these divisions a model for building bridges of unity and understanding. This unique event brought together artists, organizations, and audiences to celebrate the rich musical traditions of their own cultures while embracing those of their neighbors.
It was a moment to sing, dance, and connect—not to shout or divide. Through the shared joy of music and cultural appreciation, Fiesta de la Simcha reminded us of our shared humanity.
What better way to strengthen our community?
Source: MA Office of Public Safety and Security
Our Marketing Partners
Greater Collaboration Leads to Greater Participation
2 Communities
4 Fiesta Events
Student
58
729 Fiesta Goers
Presenting these klezmer-cuatro concerts in Springfield and Northampton gave more people more opportunities to experience and appreciate the diversity that enriches our communities.
Workshop: 75 Conservatory Concert: 432 Stavans Book Signing:
Bombyx Concert: 164
Fiesta Budget: $16,402
Expenses
Foundations: $6500 Corporate Sponsors: $4250
Earned Revenue: $4152 Government : $1500
Artists/Director: $9902 Production: $2884
Hospitality: $2466 Marketing: $1150
Coordinating events in two locations enabled both communities to benefit from the economy of scale.
Maestro Sponsors
Ensemble Sponsors
This program is funded in part by a grant from the Springfield Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Summary
Fiesta de la Simcha was a trailblazing multicultural initiative celebrating artistic expression and fostering connections between the local Hispanic and Jewish communities.
The project was a resounding success by all traditional measures:
• Attendance at all events met or exceeded expectations.
• Eleven community partnerships were established, marking a historic effort in cultural sharing.
• Seven of the region’s leading charitable donors generously supported the event.
• Made possible through the collaborative effort of cultural, educational, and religious organizations,
The experience proved deeply inspiring for the participating musicians, highly enjoyable for audiences, and a source of tremendous pride for families who saw their children perform.
Fiesta events posed profound questions about identity, unity, and cultural exchange. Does singing a 100year-old Jewish labor song in both Spanish and Yiddish inspire new perspectives? Can hearing the cuatro, Puerto Rico’s treasured traditional instrument, inspire students and add to their ethnic pride? Does learning to sing, dance, or simply enjoy art in a culturally diverse setting foster appreciation and understanding?
Fiesta de la Simcha enriched our community by demonstrating how the arts can transcend generational and cultural divides, build bridges, and joyfully bring people together.
