Encinitas dance studio continuing traditions of Ballet Folklorico

ENCINITAS, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Known for its twirling skirts and rhythmic footwork, Ballet Folklorico is one of Mexico and Central America’s predominant styles of folk dance.

Ballet Folklorico San Diego Dance Company in Encinitas, Calif. is one of several dance troupes in San Diego County keeping the dance form’s traditions alive and thriving — all while passing it onto the next generation.

“To me, the style is unique, because there is so much heritage behind it. Every dance tells a story, the costumes are very specific to the region and I think it’s beautiful to be able to see it represented on stage,” a student at Ballet Folklorico San Diego Dance Company said.

“[Ballet Folklorico is something] everybody can learn, a four-year-old to a 70-year-old,” said Nadia Arambula, the studio’s founder. “They’re going to learn part of the Mexican culture, they’re going to experience the beauty, they’re going to develop self-confidence on stage and they’re going to feel how people embrace our folklore.”

“I don’t think that this culture is specifically only for people who identify with the Hispanic culture,” another student said. “I think it’s important that everybody embodies this beautiful dance so we can keep the tradition alive.”

Watch FOX 5/KUSI photojournalist Elliot Macias Rioseco ‘ s story in the player above.

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