2007-08 Fine Arts Season opens with Ballet Folklorico “Quetzalli”

08/06/2007

Brilliant costumes, swirling skirts, animated dance steps and authentic live music will fill Petters Auditorium in the Benedicta Arts Center of the College of Saint Benedict at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, as Fine Arts Programming opens the 2007-08 Fine Arts Season with a cultural showcase by Ballet Folklorico “Quetzalli.” 

In an entertaining and non-stop performance, this folk dance troupe brings Mexico’s traditions to life through live music played on authentic string instruments and vibrant costumes. The history of Mexican dance is long and rich, starting with the ancient civilizations that flourished in the country preceding the arrival of the first Europeans. Today, that legacy reflects a cultural melting pot, combining Mexican, Indian, Spanish and African elements. The company celebrates that diverse history and the people of Mexico in colorful performances that have earned standing ovations from Cuba to Malaysia. 

For more than 20 years, Ballet Folklorico “Quetzalli” has preserved and celebrated Mexican culture. The name of the group is taken from quetzal bird that lives in Central American and Mexican rainforests and is a prominent aspect of Mexican folklore. The performance will present traditions from seven regions across Mexico, including Guerrero, Michoacan, Baja California, and its home state of Veracruz. Each region represented will feature its typical dress, dance and folklore. This is a family performance, welcoming all ages.

Tickets to Ballet Folklorico “Quetzalli” are $22, Senior (60+)/Youth (0-21) $11, CSB/SJU ID $11. This is a family event, appropriate for children of all ages. All children, regardless of age, must present a ticket. For tickets call the Benedicta Arts Center Box Office at 320-363-5777 or 320-363-3577 or order online . To learn more about Ballet Folklorico “Quetzalli,” visit their Web site.  

This performance is funded in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.