With Covid deaths and cases in Mexico now approaching levels last seen in the fall, area business and government leaders are cracking open the doors of merriment to a frightened but bored populace.
Jalisco cultural authorities have announced 14.7 million pesos ($US704,000) in cultural grants to casas de cultura in cities and towns throughout the state “with the goal of reactivating culture,” they say. The same authorities also announced a Festival de Cultura de Jalisco, a “hybrid” program (presumably meaning at least some performances in person) to begin in May with a focus on already active artistic groups that need a “last push” to facilitate performances, such as help with procuring costumes, instruments and equipment.
Bigger, more established groups in Guadalajara that receive municipal or state support, are in various stages of activity. Some are struggling with bureaucratic and budget issues—not surprising, considering that government tax revenues must be plummeting since the pandemic began its depredations, while the musicians and administrators have continued getting paid—and working hard, though usually remotely, and performing online to non-paying audiences.
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