BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS-SEPTEMBER 25, 2012- Sixty colorful years of the dance, costumes and music of Mexico come together in one night when the famed Ballet Folklórico de México makes its first-ever visit to The Arts Center at The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 22. 

The much-anticipated performance gives Valley residents a rare opportunity to see Mexico City’s premier folkloric group, formed in 1952 and still led by legendary choreographer Amalia Hernández. With a troupe of 60 plus costumes and regional dances from the many distinct regions of Mexico, a performance by Ballet Folklórico de México is a visual and musical feast for those who appreciate the rich culture of our neighbor to the south.  

This highlight performance of The Arts Center’s Signature Series is made possible with support from the Texas Commission on the Arts, Mid-America Arts Alliance and Keppel AmFELS. 

Dr. Zelma Mata, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Health and Human Performance, directs the university’s Grupo Folklórico Tizatlán. She said her students are “ecstatic” at the chance to watch the Mexican group perform. 

“The Ballet Folklórico de Mexico is the most famous folkloric dance company, known worldwide for its breathtaking costumes and its highly trained dancers who mesmerize audiences with their intricate and exquisite ‘zapateados,’ accompanied by the graceful swirling of colorful skirts,” Mata said. “Having this world-class company perform at The Arts Center is a special treat for students and for the community to enjoy and experience.” 

“Tradition” is the theme of this third season of the Signature Series. Dr. Dan Barnard, The Arts Center Director, said a performance by Mexico’s leading folkloric dance group is a perfect addition to the season line-up and a huge accomplishment for Brownsville and the university as hosts. 

In its six decades of existence, the group has performed around the world in thousands of presentations before millions of fans. In addition, more than 25,000 student dancers have perfected their art at the Ballet Folklórico de México, a school dedicated to ballet folklórico in Mexico City. 

Individual tickets for the performance of Ballet Folklórico de México are now available at UTBTickets.com or by calling 956-UTB-TKTS, 882-8587.  

Patrons are encouraged to purchase early, as limited lower-priced seating is expected to sell out quickly. Patrons may also purchase season and multi-performance tickets offering attractive discounts off the regular single-ticket price. A special “Pick Six” pass – good for any six shows – offers a 15 percent discount. Arts Center members receive additional discounts, as well as special benefits such as reserved parking and members-only events.