Remembering: Songs of Home, Stories of the Heart

Remembering: A Theatrical Concert by Aristides Rivas and Meena Malik

“Remembering” is more than a concert—it’s a journey through the heart of the immigrant experience, woven together with evocative music and poignant storytelling. Acclaimed vocalist Meena Malik and masterful cellist Aristides Rivas bring their personal stories to life, blending song and narrative in a deeply moving exploration of memory, identity, and transformation. Through their artistry, they invite the audience to feel, reflect, and connect with the universal themes of home, belonging, and change.

The program was ignited from a simple question from their son, "what is an immigrant?" In the process of sharing these memories, the artists strive to answer deeper questions related to sense of belonging; traditions and cultural practices that were brought from their home countries of Japan and Venezuela; experiencing and navigating grief; the healing power of music; and what is at stake if these memories are lost.

Direction and dramaturgy by Shyamala Moorty.

Gather & Grow invites the community to spend a day relaxing and playing in Reed Park while enjoying a range of artistic experiences. There will be activities for children and adults beginning at 4pm. Each event offers a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on art making, take in the natural surroundings, and spend time grooving to music, watching incredible performances, and having fun with the whole family!

2025 GATHER & GROW SERIES:

• Saturday, July 19: ¡Viva La Cultura! A Celebration of Latine Arts and Culture
• Saturday, August 2: Rooted Together: Healing in Nature
• Saturday, August 16: Sunshine & Strings
• Saturday, September 6: The Stage Speaks
• Saturday, September 20: East Never Loses with Feminist Center for Creative Work
• Saturday, October 4: Remembering: Songs of Home, Stories of the Heart
• Saturday, October 18: Vinyl Vibes

TIME: Events start at 4:00 p.m.

VENUE: Reed Park and The Miles Memorial Playhouse - 1133 7th Street Santa Monica, CA 90403

While we highly recommend guests RSVP via Eventbrite for updates, all events are free, family friendly and do not require reservations. For events outside in Reed Park, guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs, food and (non-alcoholic) beverages.

Gather and Grow programs in Reed Park are made possible by Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Third District

Info: Join for family friendly games and activities in the park before the performance!

Info: Join the City's Equity Department to learn what your constitutional rights are when you are in the United States.

Host or Publisher Santa Monica Cultural Affairs