Martial arts, drumming and the work of renowned Asian artists are featured at Safeco Insurance Festál: Asian-Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration, May 3, 12:00 noon -

5:00 p.m, in Center House at Seattle Center.

The festival, which kicks off Asian-Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Seattle, explores the deeply rooted cultures of Asia through spectacular cultural dances, youth drill teams, Taiko drumming and incredible performers from around the state. This diverse culture includes China, the Philippines, India, Japan, the South Pacific Islands and Cambodia.

Joining the Celebration this year is "America's Got Talent" finalist, LA-based Tatum Jones, along with Cambodian dancers, Chinese and Filipino youth drill teams, Fujima School of Dance with Connie Sugahara, Seattle Matsuri Taiko, classical dance of India (Odissi), Voviam Martial Arts, Legacies of War exhibit and a full afternoon of Asian Pacific Island arts and culture.

Did you know? Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, best known for his role in action movies and his career as a professional wrestler, has Samoan roots and was awarded the noble title of Seiuli by Samoan King Malietoa Tanumafili II in 2004. His mother is Samoan and his father a black Canadian. Johnson spent time in his youth in Aucklund, New Zealand and Hawaii.

His successful career has enabled him to give back to the community with a foundation and scholarship program that helps at-risk and terminally ill children. He has also been active in expanding opportunities for Samoans throughout the country.

Join us at Safeco Insurance Festál and become a culture carrier (someone who contributes to cultural understanding through the sharing of stories, songs, music, food and family traditions). This festival is produced by Seattle Center in partnership with the Asian-Pacific Directors Coalition. For more information on Safeco Insurance Festál and other Seattle Center programming, click on www.seattlecenter.com.

About Safeco Insurance Festál

Safeco Insurance Festál, presented by Seattle Center in partnership with community organizations, is a year-long series of FREE events that honors the cultural richness and diversity of the Pacific Northwest. Safeco Insurance Festál plays a vital part in Seattle Center efforts to connect our dynamic and varied communities.

This collection of 22 events is presented with the generous support of Safeco Insurance, Wells Fargo, Verizon Wireless and KUOW 94.9 Public Radio. Additional support is provided by The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, The Boeing Company, Seattle Center Fund and the City of Seattle.