The Galaxy of Stars Series continues Friday, Sept. 30, when Asheville Sister Cities Inc. and Palenque Rojo Productions present “Tzakbu: Queen of the Maya” at 7:30 p.m. at Western Carolina University’s John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center.
The events portrayed take place in the Maya jungle. Shaman Yax Itzam Aat travels to the Maya underworld in search of Aj Puch, the god of death. After finding him, the god informs Aat that his daughter, Tzakbu, will die soon. Will Aat accept his daughter’s fate or reject the prophecy and fight against the god of death to stop his daughter’s tragic destiny?
The presentation of “Tzakbu, The Red Queen” at WCU on Friday, Sept. 30, will feature actors from Chiapas, Mexico.
The play is written, directed and produced by Hiram Marina, a Mexican playwright and director. The performance will be spoken in authentic Mayan language and each patron will receive a program booklet that includes scene synopsis translations. It is not recommended for children under 6.
The performance is part of “Maya Explorations at Bardo Art Center,” which examines the Maya culture and history through theatrical performances and art exhibits. The Fine Art Museum is currently hosting “The Language of Weaving Exhibition: Contemporary Maya Textiles,” which runs through Nov. 7.
Tickets for “Tzakbu: Queen of the Maya” are $24 for adults, $20 for WCU faculty/staff and $8 for students/children. They can be purchased at the Bardo Arts Center box office, by visiting bardoartscenter.wcu.edu, or by calling 828-227-2479.
Link: Asheville Sister Cities Inc.;