Ballet Folklorico de Mexico
Auditorium Theatre Hosts Stunning Ballet Folklórico
By Anna Hessel
The Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández, which played limited performances on their American tour at the Auditorium Theatre, is an amazing high energy spectacle that kept the enthusiastic audience on the edge of our seats. Gorgeous authentic costumes burst with beautiful, bright colors. Skirts twirled with practiced ease and feminine grace. Intricate headgear, cowboy hats, large Mardi Gras type masks, one of which was a clown with a unicorn-like horn, and interesting props make for stunning theatrics. A devil-like character, making hilarious use of a pitchfork, who then himself was bitten on his tail by a mischievous bride, and a hot pink skeleton costume, inspired by Día de los Muertos, were audience favorites. This one act performance kept the spirited vigor alive throughout the entire show.
Spectacular dance, vocals, full of passion, and moments of humor entertained the well packed house. A full, talented mariachi band added to the high energy festivities. Backdrops were artistic, especially the carnival scene complete with a ferris wheel. An extremely well executed lasso number brought the house down. Another piece featuring the female dancers with synchronized rifles was also received with generous applause. One incredible moment occurred when a perfectly tied bow emerged after a length of ribbon placed on the stage floor was knotted together by two dancers’ feet. The bow dance continued with the knot held aloft, another crowd pleaser for sure.
One of my favorite segments featured a wedding-like scene with white ruffled dresses on the ladies and classy suits for the men. Feet stomping with clog-type precision, and very complex footwork are synonymous with this extremely talented and classy dance troupe. Shoeless numbers were also executed with precise ease. The finale included a traditional Mexican hat dance with the signature tossing of streamers, accomplished with flair and perfection.
Every performer wore pandemic masks throughout the entire show, with the exception of the two trumpet players, even the vocalists wore them but still sang gloriously; I found this commitment to health and safety very impressive. This spectacular ensemble is the epitome of beauty and grace. The evening ended with thunderous applause and McDonald’s treats in the lobby. This seventieth anniversary of Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández was truly a party to remember. For tour information on this amazing dance company or future productions at the beautiful Auditorium theater, including the upcoming Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, please visit their websites at https://www.balletfolkloricodemexico.com.mx/ (choose English in the drop down at the top right) and www.auditoriumtheatre.org.
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