Join The Fiesta With Victoria Theatre

Transporting the energy of a small-town fiesta to the stage of the Victoria Theatre, the Mexican folk-dance troupe Ballet Folklorico "Quetzalli" de Veracruz, is presented by Victoria Theatre Association on September 22.

Since its inception in 1985, Quetzalli has crisscrossed the globe, exciting audiences of all ages. Their visual fiesta of culture and folklore features many regional dances of old Mexico, in particular, their home state of Veracruz (birthplace of the world-famous "La Bamba"). The Quetzalli dance integrates influences of the indigenous Spanish, Moorish and African cultures, immersing audiences in a world of stunning visuals, heart-gripping beats and electric pulsing of the dancers' graceful passion.

What will not be seen on stage are ballet slippers - Quetzalli isn't ballet in the conventional sense; it is traditional Mexican folk dancing. Lauded around the world, Quetzalli offers entertainment that will have the whole family toe-tapping, heel-stomping and skirt-swishing for weeks afterward.

Punctuating the dancers' meticulous movement, the live music of authentic stringed instruments perfects the urgent rhythm of stomping heels and pulsing hearts, as colorful clothing envelopes the stage in eddies of Mexican spirit. Earning standing ovations from Cuba to Malaysia, Quetzalli proves they are one of Mexico's most popular exports.

Since its foundation by Maestro Hugo Betancourt, the Quetzalli company has grown from eight members to more than 45 dancers and 10 musicians, and operates a school and training program media release for young dancers in their home city of Xalapa. Betancourt has studied folklorico dance since childhood and has made several tours of the United States with previous Mexican dance troupes.

At 6:30 p.m. at the Victoria Theatre, prior to the Quetzalli performance, Betancourt will deliver an overview of the folklore of Veracruz, including music, dance, geography and customs of the region. As part of Quetzalli's appearance in Dayton, a FREE dance Masterclass will be offered at 3:30 p.m. on September 22, on the fourth floor of the Metropolitan Arts Center. All dancers - beginners, intermediate and advanced students - are encouraged to attend for personal instruction from the members of Quetzalli, and to learn about traditional folk dance. The dance Masterclass is limited to 30 participants.

Victoria Theatre Association's presentation of Ballet Folklorico "Quetzalli" de Veracruz is presented with support from Performance Sponsors The Puerto Rican Cultural Society of Dayton and League of United Latin American Citizens.

Ballet Folklorico "Quetzalli" de Veracruz is on stage at the Victoria Theatre on Saturday, September 22, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at just $31, with discounts available for students, seniors and groups, and are on sale now via Ticket Center Stage. -- www.victoriatheatre.com

Comment and add to the story without registration, but keep the comments meaningful please. Links are not accepted.