Ballet Folklórico de México celebrates 60th anniversary with Hylton Center performance

Centuries of Mexican culture will come to life when the gifted dancers of Ballet Folklórico de México take the Merchant Hall stage at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas on this Sunday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. Celebrating its 60^th anniversary in 2012, this brilliant company takes audiences on a journey that traces the evolution of Mexican dance from indigenous peoples up through the present. 

Ballet Folklórico de México was founded in 1952 by celebrated dancer and choreographer, the late Amalia Hernández, who endeavored to research, preserve and honor the richly diverse folkloric traditions of her country – a period spanning from the pre-Colombian era, through Spanish colonization and into the Mexican Revolution. Complemented by radiant costumes and exuberant live music, Hernández’s choreography captures a country with rich and diverse cultural traditions. 

The program features many lively works celebrating Mexican heritage. “Tlacotalpan Festivity” portrays the celebration of the Candelaria Virgin on Jan. 31. “Revolution” is a dance dedicated to the “Soldaderas,” women who supported their men and even fought during the Mexican Revolution. “The Deer Dance” is based on a ritual performed by the Yaqui people in preparation for a hunt. The performance concludes with “Jalisco,” a dance that celebrates the state of Jalisco – where Mariachis originated – and features a lively fiesta. 

Hernández created original choreography for more than 40 ballets until her death in 2000. Since 1959, the ensemble has performed at the Palace of Fine Arts, the foremost stage for the arts in Mexico City and has presented more than 5,000 performances at home and abroad. Ballet Folklórico de México has received more than 200 awards for its artistic merits. 

Tickets are $28, $36 and $44. This performance is Family Friendly: tickets for youth through grade 12 are half price when accompanied by an adult. To purchase tickets, please visit the Hylton Center box office, open Tuesday through Saturday, 10-6 and Thursday, 10-8; visit HyltonCenter.org; or call 888-945-2468. Free parking is available onsite. The program is subject to change. 

Prince William Hospital is the 2012-2013 Hylton Presents Season Sponsor.