Ballet Folklórico Mexicano de Yale College

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Chiapas The state of Chiapas is the southernmost region Mexico. A combination of pre-Columbian and Spanish culture gives the “fiesta chiapaneca” a distinctive character. The most widely recognized dance from this region is the all-female Chiapanecas. Male dancers in Chiapas wear traditional white shirts and pants. Women wear black lace dresses with bright, multi-colored floral embroidery. Performed dances from this region include: Chiapanecas and El Rascapetate
Distrito Federal The capital of Mexico, known popularly as Mexico City, was also the seat of the great Aztec civilization. Today, dancers honor the legacy of their Aztec heritage through dances set to pulsing drum beats, punctuated by the distinctive sound of concheros’ ankle noisemakers. Dancers wear colorful tunics with elaborate breastplates and feathered headdresses. Performed dances from this region include: Danza del Medio Sol and Danza del Fuego Nuevo
Jalisco The traditional music of Jalisco developed from the fusion of Spanish and indigenous music during the colonial period. Songs are complex and often improvised, challenging dancers, singers, and musicians alike. The “Mexican Hat Dance” (El Jarabe Tapatio) is a Jaliscan tradition. Jaliscan dancers wear the outfits most easily recognizable to American audiences. Women wear bright, full skirts with multi-colored ribbon trim, and men wear charro suits complete with ornate sombreros and zarapes. Performed dances from this region include: El Jarabe Tapatio, Las Alazanas, El Son de la Negra and El Relampago
Veracruz Jarocho music from Veracruz is fast-paced and the dance steps consist of intricate footwork requiring great agility. Dancers and musicians challenge one another to tests of speed and rhythmic accuracy with each song. La Bamba is one of the most beloved dances from Veracruz. The jarocho outfit is considered Criollo and Andalusian in origin, but has been adapted and enriched with various accessories. Women wear long white skirts with lace shawls and black flowered aprons, often dancing with fans in hand. Men wear white suits with small hats and red handkerchiefs around their necks. Performed dances from this region include: La Bamba, La Bruja and El Colas.