Wireframe Joomla Template

Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli of Chandler, Arizona is a dynamic new dance troupe celebrating the colorful tradition of Mexican folkloric dance. Led by veteran dancer Vanessa Ramirez, the group began as a recreational class at the City of Chandler’s Snedigar Recreation Center. As one of very few East Valley folklorico groups currently operating, interest in the dance troupe has grown rapidly in its two year existence, from just 6 students in June of 2008 to more than 30 in July of 2010. Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli’s students range in age from 5 to 11 years old and enjoy an exciting and fun way to express themselves through dance and learn about Hispanic heritage.

Students learn dances from various regions of Mexico. Not only do they have fun and get good exercise, but they receive a small history lesson with each dance. Each week students are assigned a homework assignment related to the region of Mexico where the dance they are learning originates. Each child shares in class what they’ve learned in a presentation. This encourages self-esteem through cultivating public speaking skills as well as the showmanship of performance. It has been wonderful to observe the growth and confidence that these young children have developed in such short time. They are truly an inspiration.

Ballet Folkorico Quetzalli dancers have performed at various community events throughout the Valley of the Sun. In Chandler, the dancers have performed at the city’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, the annual Multicultural Festival, and the Cinco de Mayo Celebration and Chihuahua Races. Other East Valley performances include the Queen Creek Hometown Christmas Celebration, Gilbert Global Days, Passport to Discovery, and seasonal Artisan Markets. In Phoenix, Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli has been featured at the Food City Cinco de Mayo Celebration and was honored to perform with Mariachi Sol de Mexico at the holiday favorite Christmas Mariachi Festival at US Airways Center.