The Vibrant Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl is at the MAC Nov. 11

The acclaimed Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl, now celebrating its 40th anniversary, returns to the McAninch Arts Center (MAC) at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11 for an evening of rich and vibrant Mexican folkloric dance.

The show features magnificent traditional costumes and thrilling dance by an ensemble of nearly 100 dancers performed to classic songs from various regions of Mexico as played by an ensemble of live musicians. Joining the company for this performance will be special guest vocalist Goyo “Goyito” Cruz in his MAC debut. A free MAC Chat will precede the performance at 6:30 p.m.

“Many of our MAC patrons had the opportunity to enjoy Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl most recently at their Lakeside Pavilion performance as part of our July 2022 ‘Family Fiesta’ and before that at our September 2019 ‘Frida Fest,’” observes MAC director Diana Martinez. “With their commitment to cultural authenticity and ability to bring pure joy and entertainment to audiences, we knew we had to bring this company back as part of our 2023-2024 MAC Performance Series.”

Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl, founded 40 years ago, has continuously upheld what is considered to be the most important aspect of Mexican culture, folkloric dance. Ensemble dancers range in age from 5 to 45, sometimes resulting in three generations of a single family performing together at once. Many family members also assist in making the costumes for the show. The company has garnered many National Folkloric Competition trophies and awards. The company is currently led by director and choreographer Juan Manuel “Nery” Cruz,

Guest vocalist and Mexico’s-own Goyo (“Goyito”) Cruz is the brother of Nery Cruz. Career highlights include performances at the San Luis Potosi International Festival, Palenque's of Mexico’s national fairs and the Paramount Theatre in Aurora, Ill. Throughout his career, he has acted in 14 plays at the Insituto Potosino De Bellas Artes (IPBA) in San Luis Potosi, Mexico and photonovelas with artists including Ofelia Medina in Mexico City.

McAninch Arts Center, located at 425 Fawell Blvd. on the campus of College of DuPage, presents “Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11. Tickets are $35 for adults, $10 for youth. For tickets or more information visit AtTheMAC.org or call 630.942.4000.