Mariachi Huenachi, an award-winning high school ensemble from Wenatchee, will open the Orcas Center 2011 season on Friday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m.

The mariachi group first performed in the San Juans in 2009 to a sold-out house at Orcas Center. During their 2009 visit, they were on island during the weekend and were unable to visit the school. This month, they will make an appearance at the school on Jan. 28; specifics to be determined.

The Wenatchee School District’s Mariachi Program has over 300 students district wide.

Mariachi Huenachi is the advanced mariachi music class at Wenatchee High School and has earned a reputation as the best high school mariachi group in the State of Washington.

Last year the group performed at more than 40 events and festivals, including games of the Seattle Seahawks, Mariners and Sounders, and at Chivas de Guadalajara games, Washington State University, University of Idaho, the Seattle Space Needle, Folklife Festival, Experience Music Project and for Governor Gregoire.

In summer of 2009, Mariachi Huenachi shared the stage with the renowned group Los Tigres Del Norte.

Tickets are $15, $11 for Orcas Center members and $5 for students.

Tickets may also be purchased at orcascenter.org or by calling or visiting the Orcas Center box office during box office hours: Thursday, Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.