Founded in 1952 by choreographer Amalia Hernandez, Ballet Folklorico is Mexico’s most revered traditional dance company. It brings together music, dance and costumes from pre-Columbian civilizations through the modern era. By Donna K. Hewett. This story is sponsored by CMIT Solutions and Traegers Bar
Transcript
Ballet Folklorico de Mexico de Amalia Hernandez, Mexico’s most revered traditional dance company completed its US tour to a sold out crowd at the civic center in Farmington. The 90 minute show resulted in an explosion of rich hues and movement creating a grand tapestry of the traditions of more than 60 regions in Mexico celebrating the country’s indigenous legends dating back to the pre-Columbian era. You’re watching the local news network brought to you by CMIT Solutions and Traegers. I’m Wendy Graham Settle. The dancers clad in eye popping crimson, turquoise and amber tones cascaded in spectacular lines. Founded in 1952 by dancer and choreographer Amalia Hernandez. She understood the power of rhythmic thunder via hidalgo boot stomping. When Hernandez died in 2000, her daughter became the general artistic director of Ballet Folklorico de Mexico. It’s permanent home is at the Palacio de Belles Artes, and it’s one of Mexico City’s most historic venues. The company has developed choreography for 40 ballets composed of 60 folk dancers and musicians.
It’s supposed to be, on some level, the folk dancing of Mexico, but it’s based on ballet. It’s with ballet technique. It is sold out, which is a thrill. I would guess that it that we might find some people that are here at the civic center for the first time in five or six years. There’s a lot of kids, which is great, ’cause that’s totally this is a great gateway to the performing arts for young younger people.
The wonderful dress twirling, mariachi music and dramatic tribal scenes with ceremonial drums and ritual dancing transported the sold out audience.
Oh, it was remarkable. We loved it. My son’s learning some of the dances. And so did you love it? What was your favorite part?
The dragon.
The dragon. It was beautiful. It was so nice to have Farmington do this. We love it.
It was an incomparable performance of the splendor of a fabulous culture. Viva La Mejico. for upcoming events at Farmington Civic Center, go to fmtn.org/shows. Thanks for watching this edition of Local News Network. I’m Wendy Graham Settle.
