The organization Raíces Culturales Latinoamericanas, co-founded by Yolanda Alcorta and Michael Esposito, hosted a vibrant evening celebrating Peruvian art and culture on August 8 at Esperanza, in collaboration with the Latin American Musicians Association (AMLA). The event was part of their ongoing series, Noches Bohemias.
The program, emceed by Vergi Viacava, featured a poetry recital by Roger Santiváñez, one of Latin America’s most renowned poets. Santiváñez is a founding member of the avant-garde literary movement Movimiento Kloaka (1982–1986), which brought together artists and writers during one of Peru’s most turbulent periods, marked by the violence of the guerrilla group Sendero Luminoso and the state’s repressive response. Santiváñez, who holds a Ph.D. from Temple University, presented his latest poetry book during the cultural evening.
Kaela Alejandra Morán Rojas, born in Piura, Peru, has been dancing since the age of three. In 2022, she earned second place in the Marinera Mundo competition. Now residing in Philadelphia with her family, Kaela performed La Marinera, Peru’s national dance, known for its refined movements, elegant footwork, and flirtatious glances. The dance traces its roots to the Spanish colonial era and reflects Peru’s rich cultural fusion.
The musical portion of the evening featured Moisés Linares Castañeda, affectionately known as El Querubín. He began his artistic journey at age seven in his hometown of Celendín, where he founded the group Los Querubines del Perú, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year. The group has been honored by the Congress of the Republic of Peru.
A highlight of the evening was a raffle of Peruvian clothing and crafts, authentic food from the restaurant Mucho Perú, and a craft market. The audience included Puerto Ricans, Colombians, Americans, and others who enjoyed this cultural celebration.
Raíces Culturales Latinoamericanas promotes awareness of the richness and diversity of Latin American cultures through visual and performing arts, as well as dynamic educational programs. The organization is also a regular participant in Philadelphia’s Feria del Barrio.