LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – For centuries, folklorico has told the story of Mexico through colorful costumes, loud gritos and zapateo.
But inside the Ballet Folklorico de mi Tierra dance studio, it’s telling a new story – one about identity and what it means to grow up Mexican- American.
“It’s a passion. It’s an escape for students, for people of all ages, and it’s a way of life,” said folklorico instructor Berta Piña.
Piña explained these dances have traveled through time and across borders.
“I think it’s something that’s very important to show to the younger generations,” Piña said. “So it’s something that, if we don’t implement it and show it to them and bring them to love it as a passion, it’s something that could slowly fade away.”
17-year-old Valeria Martinez started dancing when she was just five. She explained, at first, it felt like something she had to do. Over time, it became a way to understand who she is and where she comes from.
“Dancing folklorico, to me, means being proud of your culture because my dad got me into it at five. It put a smile on his face and it reminded him why he came here, and it just shows that I’m proud of my culture and I want to represent,” Martinez said.
Valeria said folklorico helped her understand a part of herself she didn’t always feel connected to.
“There’s a lot of kids who wouldn’t want to come because they’re embarrassed or they’re shy, but I feel like this just gives you such a good environment, and you just feel proud and you embrace your roots,” Martinez said.
This summer, Piña is opening her studio doors for Las Vegas teens in what she calls “folk fit classes”– some of whom learn about their heritage for the first time.
“They have actually even improved their Spanish; they’ve embraced the culture – they’ve made it like a part of life.”
Classes are open to teens 14 and older with no experience needed. For details on how to enroll, visit the Ballet Folklorico de mi Tierra Facebook page.
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