Mexican Folklore Dance History

Aspects of the flamenco can be seen in many Mexican folkoric dances.

Mexican folkloric dance has roots that go back many centuries. Though each region and state is home to various types of dance styles, they all have origins in the three main dance traditions.

Danza

The oldest form of Mexican folk dances, the danza has its roots in Mesoamerican days, during the time of the Mayans and Aztecs. The dances are ritualistic and often have ties to a religious aspect. One example of this is the Aztec-influenced Tlacolorerosis in the state of Guerrero, performed during harvest season.

Mestizo

After the arrival of the Spanish, European dance soon influenced native culture. These dances, called Mestizo, are a combination of indigenous and European aspects. The Spanish Flamenco most notably affected the development of Mexican dance with its dramatic steps and movements performed in brightly colored clothing. Aspects of ballet, the waltz and polka can also be seen in mestizo dances.

Bailes Regionales

Bailes Regionales are generally presented in theatrical performances or community celebrations. The dances have many ballet characteristics, like pointed toes and highly choreographed movements, and they emphasize a particular region's folk culture. Amalia Hernandez, a Mexican ballet choreographer, popularized these dances in the 1950s and helped make them internationally recognized.

References

• Ballet Folklorico La Paloma: Mexican Folk Dance History
• Mexican Dances: Mexican Folk Dances
• Midland College Foundation: Ballet Folklorico de Mexico de Amalia Hernandez

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish