Alegre Ballet Folklórico


Vida



Bienvenidos!

Welcome to our 33rd Anniversary Show, Vida a celebration of Dia de los Muertos. This year we bring you our version of the festival as done in different parts of Mexico. From the soulful sounds of the Istmo of Oaxaca, to the strumming of huapangos in the Huasteca, El Dia de los Muertos is celebrated throughout the country.
Our program is split in two parts. The first part recognizes death. We embrace it as a part of life that we all will experience and respect. The second half celebrates the lives of those who have left us, as done in the region of the huasteca.
We hope you enjoy the show.



Para la Programa en Espanol


Oprime aqui

Act 1 - La Muerte



Ciudad de mexico



Danza Concheros



Advanced Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez II



La Danza de los Concheros is a practice that has endured the centuries. This branch of the Aztecs is known for its dance that pays homage to the gods of the four cardinal points. With the arrival of the Spanish and the introduction of Christianity to México, the dance began to be included for performances to honor La Virgen de Guadalupe. Concheros represents the traditions of the Aztec ancestors that have adapted over time, mirroring the evolution México itself has undergone.



Sinaloa



Mestizo



Juniors
Choreography by Reeses Torres



Originally rooted in religious and ceremonial contexts, these dances have evolved over centuries, embracing a spectrum of influences that have enriched their character. The traditional dances of Sinaloa reflect a fusion of indigenous rituals with elements introduced through African and Caribbean influences. What sets Sinaloa apart is not only the captivating choreography but also the vibrant music that accompanies it. The region is renowned for its lively melodies and rhythms, which provide the heartbeat of these dances. The energy between the movements and the music creates an atmosphere of jubilant celebration that is both infectious and emotionally resonant.



Veracruz



Campesino



Beginner/Intermediate Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez II



The fandangos of Veracruz have not changed much in the last century. The people of the various pueblitos (small towns) still come together in the jardin (town square). The men are typically dressed in their guayaberas, while the women come dressed in their simple daily wear or something a little more elegant. The music and way of dancing has not changed. The sones and zapateados still have a Spanish flair with the African undertones.



Sotavento



Beginner/Intermediate Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez II



Along the coast of the Gulf of México, the state of Veracruz is where the Spanish first stepped foot in what is now México. With colonization, the Spanish brought slaves as well as created a port connecting México to even more countries from around the world, thus bringing new cultural influences. The music and dances from this area have a blend of African rhythms mixed with footwork that is very similar to those seen in flamenco dance. At the fandangos in the Sotavento, the men sport their guayaberas and the women wear long lavish dresses that are heavily laced and accessorize with rebozos, aprons, and fans, all originating from their Spanish colonizers.



Oaxaca



Tehuantepec



Advanced Adults
Choregraphy by Pedro Perez II



Surrounded by lavish flora, the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Oaxaca is the shortest distance between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The women of the area are adorned with coined necklaces, called ahogadores, to display their families’ wealth and status. When the Spanish monks during the Inquisition saw the topless native women, they decided to bring them blouses to give them a more civilized and modest appearance. The women, not knowing what they were, placed them on their heads creating the resplandor, a lace headdress that can be styled in several fashions.



GUerrero



Danza de los DIablos



Juniors
Choreography by Reeses Torres



This region is notable for dances that have fast rhythm, strong footwork, and sensual movements. The music and dances of the region have heavy influence from the Africans who settled in the area as well as from the Chilean sailors who were on their way to California to work in the gold mines.



Angeles y DIablos



Advanced Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez,



In 1997, Angeles y Diablos became Alegre's first theatrical piece. The dances, choreographed to music from Los Lobos' album "La Pistola y El Corazon", follow four characters. When good things are happening it's because they had their guardian angels to protect them. On the other hand, when things go wrong, it's usually because the devil made them do it. These dances take you on an emotional journey of joy, sadness, love, and regret.



Act 2



San luis Potosi



Xantolo



Advanced Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez II



Xantolo is the Day of the Dead celebration observed by the Tének (Huastec) and Nahua peoples of the Huasteca region. Its name is derived from the Latin *Sanctorum*, a term adopted during the colonial-era evangelization. While the official dates for Xantolo are October 30th through November 2nd, the actual ritual cycle begins as early as late September with the preparation of altars, *cempasúchil* (marigold) arches, and offerings—which vary depending on the deceased (with specific days designated for children, adults, and those who died in accidents). The "Danza de los Viejos"—known locally as *cuacuahtines* or simply *los viejos*—is the most iconic element of Xantolo in the Huasteca Potosina. The dancers wear hand-carved wooden masks depicting the faces of elderly or skeletal people and dress in traditional peasant clothing. Their choreography parodies old age and death, yet it is infused with humor and a sense of spiritual communion. Each *comparsa* can consist of 10 to 40 participants, traveling through the streets from one town to another over several consecutive days.



Huasteco



Juniors
Choreography by Reeses Torres



The Huasteca is a region that extends through six northeastern states of México, including San Luis Potosi. San Luis Potosi consists of a traditional outfit rich in ornate elements. The Quechquemitl is a garment that dates back to pre-Hispanic times and is similar to a poncho in design. It is intricately hand embroidered with designs in multicolored thread. It was originally worn as a huipil and reserved for special occasions by high priestesses and women of significant social standing. The necklaces, adorned with beads, not only represent wealth but also convey the marital status of the wearer. For single women, ribbons tied to the beads cascade down their backs, while married women omit the ribbon, making these adornments a significant cultural symbol.



Puebla



Huasteco



Beginning/Intermediate Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez II



The Huasteca Poblana is another one of the six regions of the Huasteca. The style is very humble and has not changed much from its Mestizo origins, however that does not make it any less notable than the other Huastecas.



Veracruz



Veracruz



Advanced Adults
Choreography by Luis Diaz



The Huasteca is a region that extends across six northeastern states of México, including Veracruz. This area is a harmonious blend of diverse indigenous groups, creating a delightful fusion of languages, cultures, and a wide spectrum of dances and traditional attire. These cultural influences are beautifully expressed through the rhythmic melodies of the music and lyrics of the huapangos. The women of this region exude a unique femininity, moving with grace and beauty that is deeply entwined with their cultural heritage. These characteristics find a special tribute in the dance of La Presumida, which stands out among huapangos as a dance that intentionally has the absence of a male partner. It stands as a dedication to the extraordinary beauty and strength of the women in this region, celebrating their unique spirit and power.



Queretaro



Danza Xochipizahuatl



Beginner/ Intermediate Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez II



The translation of “Xochipitzahuatl” from the native language of Nahuatl means, “small flower”. This is because the indigenous believed the music was beautiful enough to fill one’s heart and make it as delicate as a flower. The dance is traditional among the Nahua of the Huasteca, as well as the Otomi in other regions. The dance is another example of the merging of indigenous and colonial customs. The song is sung entirely in Nahuatl and became a way to honor the Virgen de Guadalupe. The colors of the ribbons represent the various communities coming together to celebrate. As the dancers enter, the ribbon is held to make the shape of the crescent moon that is seen at the feet of La Virgencita, later being crossed to create the stars on her veil. Finally, the ribbons create the shape of a rose to represent the dozens of roses that fell from Juan Diego’s tilma.



Huapangos Arribenos



Beginner/ Intermediate Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez II



The Huasteca is an expansive region that spans across the six northeastern states of Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Hidalgo, San Luis Potosí, Puebla, and Querétaro. This region is a blend of several indigenous groups, resulting in a beautiful diffusion of languages, cultures, and a diverse array of dances and traditional attire. In Queretaro women wear an ensemble consisting of a simple blouse, a floral skirt paired with an apron, a rebozo draping over their shoulders, and huaraches. Meanwhile, the men are attired in a traje de manta, also wearing huaraches and a sombrero, and often carrying a morral. The rebozo, in particular, holds a special significance in this region. It is more than just an accessory it is a symbol of cultural heritage and a way for the women to express themselves.


Tamaulipas



Huasteco



Juniors
Choreography by Reeses Torres



The Huasteca is a region that extends through six northeastern states of México, including Tamaulipa. The Zafra is a festival where the people dress in their finest suede attire, adorned with white flowers. The huapango huasteco is unique to this region, with the falsetto singing, rhythmic music, and intricate footwork.



hidalgo



Beginner/ Intermediate Adults
Choreography by Pedro Perez II
Advanced Adults
Choreography by Daniel Negrete



Deriving from the Nahuatl word "huapantli” meaning, "wooden table" the huapango is a dance traditional to several states across the Huasteca, Hidalgo being no exception. These dances are notable for their complex footworks emphasized when done on tarimas. The rhythms of the music and footwork are festive with influences from both indigenous and Spanish origins.



Coming 2027



Spring Shows 2027



June 12th
Infantil/Children 1:00pm
Juniors/Adults 7:00pm

Cavazos Center for the Performing Arts
Arlington, Texas



Dancers



Juniors



Abigail Nunez, Allison Bernal, Ariana Diaz, Aryanna Rockmore,

Briana Garcia, Camila Castaneda, Camila Lopez, Castiel Hernandez,

Evelyn Nunez, Ileana Monreal, Joselyn Gutierrez, Juan Gutierrez, Lourdes Lazalde, Lucas Gonzaba, Makinly Garza, Mia Medina,

Paula Trujillo, Samantha Teakell, Victoria Garza



Beginner/Intermediate Adults



Adriana Guzman, Adrianna Cabrales, Aida Dominguez, Alexa Cantu,

Aryanna Rockmore, Austin Johnson, Berenice Sanchez, Cloris Rangel, Dina Ramirez, Edgar Dominguez, Elizabeth Hourigan, Felicia Rockmore, Gabriela Garcia, Griselda Garza, Isabel Guel, Israel , Jorge Rojas, Justin Carrillo, Leslie Guerrero, Luz Maria Garcia, Isabel Pulgarin, Melissa Ipina, Melissa Lara, Monica Monreal, Sandra Matthews, Xochitl Fuentes, Yajaira Rodriguez, Yasmin Barriga


Special Guests: Jesus Flores, Jose Alvarez



Advanced Adults



​Alejandra Ortega, Alejandro Marin, Alessandra Davila, Christian Woelfle, Daniel Negrete, Dominique Fleming, Elena Cruz, Eleyna , Eric Galindo, Fiona Woelfle, Francisco VIllareal, Isabel Garcia, Jazmine Gutierrez, Jenni Macias, Jessica Garcia, Michael Felix, Nallely Ramirez,

Reeses Torres, Roman Montenegro, Vanessa Steele, Yesenia Lerma



Bryan Vasquez



Singer



Diana Sanchez



Singer



Credits



Folkloric dance, like any cultural expression, is a dynamic art form that continually evolves. From the arrival of the Spaniards on the shores of Veracruz to the technological advancements of today, the people and places of México have been subject to various influences. Ballet Folklórico, as a representation of Mexican culture, also undergoes transformations. These changes can manifest in a variety of ways, whether through fusions of musical influences, adaptations to dances, or the blending of regional clothing. This dynamic and ever-changing nature is what keeps Folkloric dance vibrant, relevant, and a living expression of culture. It adapts to the times and continues to tell the captivating stories of México's heritage through the power of dance. Mosaico is a collection of choreographies that takes Mexico's culture and makes it into a dance representation. Whether it showing patriotism or influenced by iconic events or eras, these creative expressions as an extension of appreciation and love of Mexico.

Alegre Ballet Folklórico, a 501c3 Non-Profit dance troupe, was founded in September of 1993 by Pedro Perez II. The organization's roots trace back to a group of students from the Law Magnet High School (now the Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet) who wished to continue their dance education and nominated Pedro to lead them. From these humble beginnings, the group has grown from a 3-person backyard pastime to an award-winning company with over 100 dancers.

Over the past thirty years, Alegre has performed in numerous venues across the United States, including the AT&T Stadium and Walt Disney World, as well as internationally in México and Oslo, Norway. The group has consistently strived to uphold the value of preserving Mexican heritage through in-depth classes that equip dancers with the knowledge to share with others. This commitment to education and cultural preservation is at the heart of Alegre Ballet Folklórico's mission and continues to guide their work today.

Our classes are under the expert guidance of Pedro Perez II, Jessica Garcia, and Reeses Torres, a dynamic team with a combined dance experience of over 30 years. Their commitment and dedication are key in preserving and nurturing the vibrant tradition of Ballet Folklórico, ensuring that it continues to thrive and enchant audiences for generations to come.



Production



Director / Founder...............................Pedro Perez Instructor............................................ReesesTorres Instructor...........................................Jessica Garcia

Assistant.........................Dominique Avila Fleming

Masks..............................................Daniel Ramirez

Lighting...................................................CPVA Staff

Hand Program......................................Ibeth Perez

Program Information.....Dominique Avila Fleming




Board of Directors



President..............Chabelita Guel

Vice-President.....Ibeth Perez

Secretary..............Naomi Meza

Treasurer..............Albert Rojas

​Member................Rita Castillo Vela

Member................Dina Ramirez

Member................Albert Wash

Member................DeLaurence Burns

Member................Dr. Gaby Baylon



Special thanks to







Contact us



info@alegreballet.com | Phone: 214.755.3989 (Text preferred)


more