Colorful, exuberant and still vibrantly young after nearly 50 years, the Ballet Folclórico of the University of Guadalajara, one of several such ensembles across Mexico – and one of the most exciting dance troupes on stage in this writer’s opinion – is once again in the middle of their annual performance season at the Teatro Delgollado.
It’s well worth the trouble to pass up a lazy Sunday morning to witness the two-hour production at 10 a.m. For first-timers as well as long-time aficionados, the precise steps, swirling skirts and attention to costuming detail, the musical acumen and pure enjoyment on the faces of musicians, singers and dancers alike is completely beguiling.
Made up almost exclusively of current and former students and instructors from the University of Guadalajara, this teaching and performance tradition is a precious gem among the city’s cultural treasures. The local troupe has performed across five continents over the course of its history, and the current performers lack nothing of their predecessors’ abilities as they execute their time-honored dances and music.
This celebration of dance that tells a proud story of heritage uniquely transmitted across generations and peoples is a Tapatio experience that begs to be shared. Like the other icons of Mexican culture, if you don’t participate in it, you can’t say you’ve truly been in the country. Ballet Folclórico is a full-throated expression of what is nothing less than a specifically Mexican-style, graceful joy.
You’ll leave the elegant Teatro Delgollado with a deeper appreciation of the cultural place and time that surrounds you in Guadalajara, and probably hungry for more – as well as for a good breakfast of chilaquiles.
Catch them before they make their annual disappearance - you don’t want to wait. Ballet Folclórico of the University of Guadalajara performs on Sundays, August 17 and 24, September 21 and 28, and October 5 and 12 at Teatro Delgollado in the city center. All performances are at 10 a.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com.mx.