Amélie Langlois invites you to special concert at Bocas del Toro’s new cultural museum:

Dear Bocas del Toro community,

As many of you already know, the Hou Wang Temple and Museum was inaugurated last October after several years of dedicated work by the Chinese Museum Association of Bocas del Toro. This project was born from a sincere desire to preserve the historic Chinese tradition in Bocas del Toro—a tradition marked across generations by a profound respect and gratitude toward their adopted land, Panama.

The purpose of the museum goes beyond preservation. It actively supports the cultural heritage of Bocas by creating high-quality events that help fund and encourage local young artists, including musicians and dancers.

I am deeply impressed by the dedication and passion the Association has shown in honoring the rich cultural identity of Bocas del Toro. This commitment is clearly reflected in the current exhibition. Through the museum’s work, the fascinating history of our archipelago is shared while creating meaningful opportunities, such as the formation of a new folk dance ensemble for local youth.

It is a great honor for me to serve as the curator for the museum’s first event. On Monday, January 12th, our island will receive a special visit from the New York Jazz Academy, making a one-night-only stop in Bocas del Toro with a full 14-piece ensemble led by saxophonist Javier Arau.

This concert is an exact preview of the program they will later present at the Panama Jazz Festival, offering a unique opportunity to experience the full festival production within the intimate atmosphere of the museum.

The program includes New Orleans-inspired brass band music, classic big band jazz, vocal jazz, and powerful saxophone and trumpet sections: a celebration rooted in tradition, performed with contemporary energy.

The New York Jazz Academy has participated annually in the Panama Jazz Festival for nine years, and this concert marks a unique moment: a world-class ensemble passing through Bocas for one night only.

Along with the team at the Hou Wang Temple and Museum, I invite you to be part of this experience: a visit to the museum followed by a unique jazz concert.

The funds raised will support the creation of a new traditional folk dance group.

• 📍 Event Starts: 4:00 p.m.

• 🍹 Drinks available

• 🎟️ Tickets: WhatsApp +507 6668 8187 or at the museum (Tue–Sun, 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.)

• 📍 Location: 8QQ6+H3R, C. 1a, Bocas del Toro

I hope you will join us in celebrating our community!