MIDDLETOWN, Pa. — The Mukund S. Kulkarni Cultural Series at Penn State Harrisburg will present Sanctuario, featuring powerhouse vocalist Mónica Ortiz Rossi and her nine-piece Afro-Caribbean band, on Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Kulkarni Theatre for a night of music and movement that celebrates the richness of Dominican and Caribbean culture.
The theater will be transformed into an interactive space where the audience can enjoy the driving beat of Sanctuario’s music, from the rhythmic merengue to the romantic sway of bachata. There will be a space to dance on stage with the band that will not compromise the view or listening pleasure of others — or attendees can simply sit back in their seats and let the rhythms wash over them.
Known for her dynamic stage presence and soaring vocals, Rossi, who is of Dominican descent, leads a top-tier ensemble of musicians whose infectious energy transcends the stage. Rossi has lent her vocals to Kemo The Blaxican‘s (of Delinquent Habits) Latin hip-hop album La Receta as well as Giovanny Blanco and JasWho’s live Spigga performances in Los Angeles. Upon her return to her native Brooklyn, New York, she worked with numerous projects including Afro-Latin projects San Juan Hill, led by Frank Diggz, Badinba, and La Madrugada, all formative experiences for creating the Afro-Latin music and dance ensemble Sanctuario.
Presented in partnership with the campus Latino Club and Caribbean Heritage Association, the performance kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month at Penn State Harrisburg.
“We’re excited to launch Hispanic Heritage Month with a concert that invites everyone to connect through music,” said Amy Banks, performing arts operations specialist. “Sanctuario is not just a performance — it’s a celebration of heritage, unity, and joy.”
Admission is free for all Penn State Harrisburg students, staff and faculty, who can reserve a seat on Discover East (formerly Engage). A limited number of free seats are available to the general public. To reserve, email kulkarniboxoffice@psu.edu with the request and a callback number (limit two tickets per request).
About the Mukund S. Kulkarni Cultural Series
The Mukund S. Kulkarni Cultural Series at Penn State Harrisburg brings world-class artists to campus, offering experiences that inspire, connect, and unite audiences. With an emphasis on cultural exchange and accessibility, the series celebrates the transformative power of the arts. The series is made possible thanks to more than $1 million in gifts in honor of former Penn State Harrisburg Chancellor Mukund S. Kulkarni, who retired in June of 2018.