Dancers at the Ballet Folklorico de Chicago are trained in choreography originating in Mexico and Spain. Students gain artistry and technical strength while studying under the guidance of renowned guest artists, industry leaders, and university faculty. Student performances include the presentation of original choreography at the company’s Clase Abierta. The program is ideal for students interested in learning about the art form and fostering a lifelong passion for it.
While many forms of dance originated in Mexico, ballet folklorico has a particular flair for combining traditional Mexican costumes and music with modern European influences. The latin dance called baile folklorico encompasses a variety of styles, including the charro suit and flamenco-style zapateo. Throughout its long history, the company has performed in numerous festivals, from Mexico City to Texas. Its performances have earned strong support in the Mexican-American community and have been viewed by a wide range of audiences.
The Ballet Folklorico de Mexico has been a mainstay in Mexico City since 1952. It combines folklore from pre-Columbian civilizations to the modern era. The company maintains a permanent home at the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City and has performed throughout Mexico. As of 2009, the group includes over fifty performers. Although the organization is often known as Ballet flora, Amalia Hernandez, and Ballet Folklorico de México, the more common name for the group is ballet folklorico.