The world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, joined by top winners from the Mariachi Extravaganza National Competition, will take the stage at the Detroit Opera House for a special Mother’s Day weekend performance.
The concert will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 7:30 PM, offering audiences an unforgettable evening of world-class mariachi music in one of the nation’s most prestigious venues.
Opening the evening will be standout student performers representing the next generation of mariachi excellence, including Mariachi Nueva Generación of Texas State University, along with award-winning vocalists Allyson Contador and Isabella Gonzalez.
Mariachi Nueva Generación, under the direction of Cirilo Campos, earned first place in the Mariachi Extravaganza National Group Competition (College/University Category) in December. Members include:
Violinists
Karla Alvizo
Jaretzi Guadalupe Castellanos
Julian A. Esparza
Elma Raquel Garcia
Luis Garcia
Abigail Jimenez
Hector Maldonado
Angelica Noemi Santos
Daniela Velazquez Escobar
Armonia
Sofia Gonzalez Ibarra
Jorge Dovalina Vihuela
Juarez I. Elizarraraz
Janaina A. Gonzalez
Mario A. Gonzalez
Isaiah A. Herrera
Trumpet
Hector Muñoz
Gael Quintanilla
Amado Sanchez Hernandez
Allyson Contador, a student at McAllen High School, was named Grand Champion Vocal Winner, while Isabella Gonzalez captured first place in the college/university vocal category.
These exceptional young artists will represent the Mariachi Extravaganza on a national stage through a collaborative initiative between Detroit Opera, the Mariachi Extravaganza, Texas State University, and McAllen High School.
Participants will arrive in Detroit on Wednesday, May 6, engaging in two full days of educational presentations and community performances across the city. Performances will take place at Cristo Rey High School and Bennett Elementary along with appearances at the Compas Center of Music and the Detroit Institute of Arts Museum. Their residency will culminate in a grand performance at the Detroit Opera House, where they will open for Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán.
Taking place the evening before Mother’s Day, this concert offers a meaningful cultural celebration shared across both the United States and Mexico.
With more than a century of musical tradition, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán continues to set the standard for mariachi performance worldwide. Known for their precision, artistry, and dynamic stage presence, the ensemble presents a rich repertoire that includes sones, rancheras, huapangos, polkas, and valses. Their performances feature a vibrant blend of violins, trumpets, harp, guitarrón, vihuela, and guitar, along with powerful vocal arrangements ranging from solos to trios.
Audiences can expect beloved classics such as “El Son de la Negra,” “La Fiesta del Mariachi,” and “Viva México,”along with engaging storytelling moments that bring the music and its cultural roots to life. Concert goers will also get to hear award-winning selections from Mariachi Extravaganza winners.
Event Details
Mariachi Vargas at Detroit Opera House—Mother’s Day Celebration
Detroit Opera House
1526 Broadway Street, Detroit, MI
Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster, at detroitopera.org, and in person at the Detroit Opera House box office
Presale: November 3 (12 PM ET) – November 5 (11:59 PM ET)
Public On Sale: November 6 at 12 PM ET
About Detroit Opera
Detroit Opera is a national leader in the performing arts, known for its innovative productions and commitment to community engagement. Founded in 1971 as Michigan Opera Theatre by Dr. David DiChiera, the organization continues to shape the future of opera and dance in America through bold artistic vision and inclusive programming.
This performance opportunity has been in the works for the past 2 years and we are so grateful to everyone who helped make it happen!
