The Albert Lea Civic Theatre and the Albert Lea Art Center are teaming up to celebrate Mexican Independence Day.

A program with music and a speech will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15, in the theatre. From there, participants will process down the street to a reception and music at the Art Center at 5 p.m. Refreshments are being provided by Tienda Mexico. There is no charge to attend.

The gallery show features the works of local Hispanic artists, including Sam Castillo, Jonny Whelan, Rene Cardona and Luis Chamizo.

&uot;We felt this was a good way to use both our facilities,&uot; said Patrick Rasmussen, Civic Theatre manager. &uot;Anyone who has had curiousity about Mexican Independence Day is welcome to come.&uot;

Also at the Art Center, in the Herfindahl Gallery, is the Hopper Family Show and Memorial. Mary Ann Hopper was a volunteer and member of the Art Center before her death on Feb. 11 of this year. The reception is also the opening celebration for the Hopper show.

&uot;Mary Ann really pushed for a Hispanic celebration,&uot; said Annette Oswald, Art Center coordinator.

&uot;We’re hoping this event will grow, and that more businesses will join in.&uot;

Regular gallery hours at the Art Center are noon-4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission is not charged, but donations are accepted to help defray Art Center expenses.

For more information, call the Art Center

at 373-5665.