Now the critical role invertebrates play in Mexican culture is explored in Legacies: Invertebrates of Mexico, the Butterfly Pavilion’s latest exhibit. Legacies not only provides a look at some of the insects that live in Mexico, but allows visitors to learn about their importance to modern life.
“A lot of people don’t necessarily think of insects as animals,” said Jennifer Quermann, senior director of communications and marketing at the Pavilion. “But when they meet them and learn about their personalities, people are more likely to want to help protect them.”
The exhibition runs at the Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W. 104th Ave. in Westminster, through next year and is included with a general admission ticket. To put Legacies together, the Pavilion collaborated with several partners, including the Consulate General of Mexico in Denver, the National Institute of Anthropology and History of Mexico, Calaveras en mi Ciudad and Harvest Of All First Nations.
As part of the exhibit, visitors have the opportunity to check out live animals like millipedes, scorpions, tarantulas, slipper lobsters and more, and learn about the various roles they play in life in Mexico. That includes everything from food sources to red dye, which is made from cochineal bugs.
“It is important to us that these stories are told,” said Sara Stevens, director of animal collections. “Without invertebrates, the stories and culture of Mexico would be very different than it is now.”
In addition to the animals, the exhibit also features sensory elements like soundscapes and natural scents to bring guests to the Mexican landscapes, and interactive educational activities that emphasize the importance of partnerships and local conservation.
“You can’t just do conservation work in one place,” Quermann said. “Community science is so important and there are many ways to get involved. We all need to be thinking of ways to work together.”
The importance of collaboration is highlighted in the annual Monarch butterfly migration, one of nature’s most stunning displays. The Pavilion does volunteer work in Mexico’s Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve to protect the butterflies’ winter habitat, while also encouraging people in Colorado to plant Milkweed, a critical fuel source on their migration.
The aim of the Pavilion’s work is people will come away with a new appreciation of the animals and an interest in protecting them.
“One great thing about insects is that with minimal effort, you can make a big impact,” Stevens said. “It’s a great return on investment.”
Information and tickets are available at https://butterflies.org/legacies-invertebrates-of-mexico/.
Denver Ballet Theatre Dances to PACE Center
Ballet, much like opera, deals in big emotions. That’s what makes it so compelling. And that’s what the Denver Ballet Theatre is bringing to the Parker Arts, Culture & Events (PACE) Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., at 1 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4, with its presentation of “Paquita.”
According to provided information, “Paquita” is a “breathtaking, romantic ballet featuring gypsies, a murderous plot, forbidden love, a heroic rescue and a grandiose wedding set in the south of Spain.”
Don’t miss this top-tier cultural experience at https://parkerarts.org/event/denver-ballet-theatre-presents-paquita/.
Colorado Stars of Magic Bring an Unforgettable Evening to Lakewood
Those who love a good magic show are in for a real treat with the Colorado Stars of Magic’s performance of One Unforgettable Magic Show at 7 p.m. on May 9 at the Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 Allison St.
The show has been designed by Cosmo Solano, the organization’s director, to offer a completely unique spin on the magic performance. Solano hand-selected magicians like Shane Cohen, Shawn Preston, Brad Montgomery and Scott McCray to give audiences a night full of hilarious moments and heart-stopping surprises. Each magician has their own special talents and act, and together, they’re sure to create an unforgettable evening.
Information and tickets are available at www.coloradostarsofmagic.com.
Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Jack White at Mission Ballroom
Jack White is one of the modern-day embodiments of indie rock. Ever since he burst onto the scene with The White Stripes, he’s never lost his passion for the guitar or music. He’s constantly experimenting, not only in how he makes music but what that music sounds like. It doesn’t always hit, but his latest album, “No Name,” is a certified banger and his best in years. It’s an eclectic and electric record that truly rips.
In support of the album, White is coming to the Mission Ballroom, 4242 Wynkoop St. in Denver, at 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 8 and Friday, May 9. These will be concerts of rock music in the truest sense. Don’t miss it.
Get tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.
Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.