Which stories live on through music? The ones too powerful to be forgotten.
Las Cafeteras bring those stories to The Hemmens with “Hasta La Muerte,” a theatrical and musical production inspired by Indigenous and Mexican traditions of Día de los Muertos. The performance begins at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1 at The Hemmens Cultural Center, located at 45 Symphony Way in Elgin.
Las Cafeteras emerged from East Los Angeles and are known for remixing roots music and telling modern stories through a blend of traditional Son Jarocho instruments and contemporary sounds. Performing in English, Spanish and Spanglish, the group incorporates influences ranging from rock and hip-hop to rancheras, creating music that connects cultural traditions with contemporary storytelling.
Through music, dance, poetry and storytelling, this two-act production explores grief and loss through the celebration of life and death. Drawing on Mexican folklore, “Hasta La Muerte” tells new stories, revisits traditional archetypes, uplifts the role of curanderas and invites audiences to reconsider their ideas about the afterlife.
Original and traditional songs, vibrant choreography and theatrical elements create a visually striking experience rooted in culture, memory and tradition. Las Cafeteras describe the production as an exploration of storytelling as a way to process grief and share love with those who have passed.
“‘Hasta La Muerte' tells a bigger story about culture, tradition and the memories of people we carry with us,” said Anthony Lentino, cultural arts and special events programming manager for the City of Elgin. “Las Cafeteras have created something that feels both deeply rooted in history and completely their own, and we’re excited to bring that experience to The Hemmens.”
Tickets start at $17.75 and are available online at Hemmens.org/Tickets, by visiting The Hemmens Box Office or by calling 847-931-5900.
Hemmens Cultural Center is located at 45 Symphony Way in Elgin.