The Legend Returned…

By Nick Nicholas with Wes Hessel

Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández is a first-class ballet company whose repertory is focused on saving the richness of traditional folklore tales and movement across the many regions and states of Mexico. This exuberant group, with about 32 dancers on stage and a 10-man mariachi folk music band, has spared no expense, and reached the ultimate in making a reality of their imagination in their costumes, set design, and lighting, which all is so impressive and mesmerizing, I swear I saw a sea of Monarch butterflies in one of the dances in their weekend appearance at The Auditorium Theatre.

The show was a marathon of nine ballets lasting about total of two hours, with dancers who push and break the threshold of human physical endurance. They are champions of movement, interpretation, acting, and synchronicity in very demanding group choreography while disciplined, skilled and joyous in their dances. These artists are impeccable in percussive footwork and tapping that expresses an incessant dialogue of love, pride, joy, envy, and hope, all culminating in wins.

Nothing is left unexplored from tales, rites and rituals, love courtship, big square dances, festive celebrations, a nod to Mexican toys and games exploring fantasy and reality, revolutions past, bel canto music, and traditional songs from voices that were born to sing the thoughts and desires of the Mexican people. This performance exceeds expectations and leaves you with a treasure of the senses – it is exhilarating.

Ballet Folklorico de Mexico is one of the best dance companies in the world, so when they are in our town, go pay them a visit. You will see just how intertwined the symbols among nations are, and how we celebrate the human culture at large. There is no bad seat in the house for these works, which are so rich and vibrant they can be enjoyed from anywhere in the theater. You will not be disappointed. For more information on the ensemble, please visit www.balletfolkloricodemexico.com.mx; for more great entertainment in movement, music, and other cultural experiences, go to www.auditoriumtheatre.org. 

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