A big fiesta
Gazpacho restaurant is back this year putting on a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. This is more than just tequila, limes and Coronas. The holiday is recognized for the Mexican army’s victory over French forces in the Battle of Puebla. In the U.S., it’s more recognized as a day to celebrate Mexican pride. Proceeds from Durango’s celebration will go to support the Ballet Folklorico de Durango program and Fort Lewis College’s El Centro de Muchos Colores. A full Saturday afternoon of celebration is planned at the restaurant, 431 East Second Ave.:
1:30-2:45 p.m.: Zumbathon, for adults and kids ($10 donation suggested)
2:45 p.m.: Piñata-breaking contest
3:30-4:30 p.m.: Ballet Folklorico de Durango performance
4:30 p.m.: DJ Euphoria music and dancing ($2 of each margarita will support retention of Hispanic and multicultural college students at FLC.)
For more information, call El Centro at 247-7654 or visit www.gazpachodurango.com.
Mint julep, please
The Rochester Hotel, Young Professionals of Durango and Breckenridge Bourbon will host a Kentucky Derby party from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Rochester garden, 726 East Second Ave. Pull out your best – and biggest – derby hat and costumes to mingle, drink and egg on your favorite horse as you watch the famous race. There will be prices for Ladies Best Hat, Men’s Best Hat and a raffle for the winning horse. Tickets are $25 for Young Professional members and $75 for all others. This is a fundraiser for Mercy Health Foundation and Hospice of Mercy. Tickets available by calling 247-0312 or visit www.durangobusiness.org.
With grace
Ethel will perform at the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College.
A laugh riot
Comedy night returns to the Henry Strater Theatre at 8 p.m. Saturday. Spencer James and Mike Jones are on the bill. James blends music and dance into his stand-up routine that is described as “anti-jobs and pro fat kids.” He makes no apologies for anything insensitive, he says. Jones, a Denver resident, describes himself as having a personality of a cartoon character – we just don’t know which one. People say he’s witty, overly positive and “enthralling.” Sorry, teeny-boppers – this show is for those 18 years and older. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door and are available at www.henrystratertheatre.com.
Nope, this isn’t Kansas
Merely Players opens its production of “The Wizard of Oz” tonight. The classic story that everyone remembers from his or her childhood comes to life on the local stage at the Durango Arts Center, 802 East Second Ave. Performances will be at 7 p.m. today, Saturday, Thursday, May 9 and May 10. There will be a matinee at 1 p.m. Saturday and May 10. (Look for the upcoming review in Tuesday’s Arts & Entertainment section.) Tickets available through www.durangoarts.tix.com.
