Internationally renowned Mexican fashion designer Armando Mafud, who recently outfitted the Mexican Olympic Team for the opening ceremonies of the 2012 London Olympic Games, will headline Casa de Mexico’s annual Gala Concert next month. Mafud will show the history of Mexico from 1500 to today through a collection of his gowns inspired by the traditional costumes and techniques from across the country of Mexico, including using sequins and embroidery. The Gala Concert, an annual celebration of Mexican independence this year themed “México Vive” (Mexico Lives), will be held at 8 p.m., Saturday, September 15, 2012 at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre. Mafud’s designs will be accompanied by music from Ballet Folklorico de Saltillo, a children’s musical group from the city of Saltillo in northeastern Mexico who will be led by the Mayor of Saltillo, Jericó Abramo Masso and his wife Bertha Gutierrez. The concert will also feature a performance from the 10-piece Mariachi Mexico Internacional band. The concert will celebrate Mexican culture and history with world class Mariachi and dance performances in addition to costumes designed by Mafud. All proceeds will benefit Mexican families living in central Florida who are seriously ill and in great financial need. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased through Orlando Venues. The Gala Concert has become a central Florida tradition and in 2011 drew approximately 2,400 people including Mexican dignitaries. Casa de Mexico is a nonprofit organization founded to pursue fundraising activities, create relationships with other organizations and dedicate itself full time to cultural promotion and charitable giving. Casa de Mexico strives to make a positive impact through strong associations with businesses and individuals in the central Florida community.