Founded in 1952 by dancer and choreographer Amalia Hernández, Ballet Folklórico de México got its start as a small company that produced dances based on Mexican folkloric traditions for a weekly television show.

Hernández trained in ballet and modern dance, but was drawn to the rich, vast, and unique culture found throughout Mexico and became known as a trailblazer in Mexican folk dance. Inspired by the diversity of the regions, she created dances that celebrated the country’s indigenous legends and traditions dating back to the pre-Columbian era. This performance will include new works and traditional dances from the states of Jalisco, Sonora, and Veracruz.

To complement Ballet Folklórico de Méxicode Amalia Hernández’s performance, our UMS Learning Guide offers context about the ensemble, Ballet Folklórico, and the history of Mexico.