MANAGUA, NICARAGUA.- -(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 6, 2006--The Nicaragua Tourism Board today announced the country's first Nicaragua Cultural Series, with a variety of performances and exhibits being presented during the months of October and November in South Florida and Washington, D.C.

Among the various events, the Tourism Board will be introducing El Gueguense -- Nicaragua's signature folkloric masterpiece combining music, dance and theater -- which in 2005 was proclaimed by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of mankind for its unique place in Latin America's folk heritage. The Cultural Series, which in general will be free-of-charge to the public, will include a visual arts exhibit at the Nicaraguan Embassy (Washington, D.C.), and performances by Nicaragua's Ballet Folklorico at the IDB Cultural Center Theatre (Washington, D.C.), the Smithsonian Museum (Washington, D.C.) and the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (S. Florida). (See full details below).

"We are thrilled to introduce Nicaragua's cultural attractions in the United States," says Maria Rivas, Nicaragua's Minister of Tourism. "Nicaragua is an ideal destination for those interested in cultural travel. Our love of craftsmanship, cuisine, music, dance and poetry is prominently displayed throughout the country. These events will hopefully provide a glimpse into Nicaragua's rich folklore and passion for the arts."