Under the warm stage lights of the Black Box Theater, David Hernandez and Street Sounds performed for the Eastern community Tuesday.

Hernandez and Street Sounds were brought to Eastern’s campus in connection with Latino Heritage month.

Juanita Cross, organizer for the event, said this is the most recent event for Latino Heritage Month. The theme for Latino Heritage month is “history, heritage and tradition,” she said.

She said she felt Hernandez and his group would fit well into the heritage element of that theme.

“You don’t typically hear this kind of music in the area, so it’s a welcome change,” Cross said.

Before the show, the audience ate food served buffet style by the Don Sol restaurant, and talked amongst themselves.

Erin Williams, a senior psychology major, said that she enjoys cultural events like Hernandez’s group.

“I like the way that he blends the music and the poetry.” Williams said.

Hernandez also showed a talent at blending comedy into his act, making jokes throughout the show.

“Thank you for being here tonight,” Hernandez introduced himself. “My name is David Hernandez and I am a famous poet.”

However Hernandez did not always perform using multiple artistic expressions, he stated that when he first began writing poetry it was strictly “for the page.”

Although the group that performed with Hernandez on Tuesday has technically only been together one year, the group has been performing together in some form or another for 40 years.

Hernandez said that he wanted his poetry to be for people, not just for what he called the “wine and cheese” crowd.

Much of Hernandez’s work is deeply rooted in his Puerto Rican heritage and his relationship with the city of Chicago.

Hernandez said that his true inspiration comes from creativity, a need to express himself and mostly, people.

” If it wasn’t for people…that’s why I write. It’s people,” he said.

Recalling the words of his mentor, a sculptor, Hernandez said that all forms of art are essentially the same.

“It’s all about giving form to formlessness,” he said.

Cross said that there have also been lectures, presentations and opportunities for students to learn Latin dance steps during the Latino Heritage month programs.

Mel Boydston can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].