Ballet Folklorico Essay

Literature Review The history of Ballet Folklorico is very complicated, although it existed in the 17th century it was not solidified until after the 1810 War of Independence when Ballet Folklorico became sought-after. Another wave of popularity happened after the 1910 Revolution, due to societal changes. Folklorico had been used as a political weapon creating feelings of patriotism and nationalism. It ultimately became a symbol of liberty during the two wars, bringing the Mexican people together. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Mexican government made it a requirement in schools to teach Ballet Folklorico and keep it alive. In 1952, Amalia Hernández established the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico, which is no doubt the most well known Ballet Folklorico company (Cantú). Ballet Folklorico has been influenced by many different cultures, including European, African, and Native influences. That can be seen in the steps, actions, and costumes in Ballet Folklorico.

Many Chicanos felt that they were not Mexican enough to help with the creative process of producing new dances for Ballet Folklorico and instead just dance the ones that already exist or the ones created by Mexican Folklorico teachers. Ballet Folklorico has been a way for Mexicans and Chicanos to express themselves and allow them to keep in touch with their culture. Although many Mexican-Americans nowadays do not dance Ballet Folklorico anymore and it has become increasingly rare to find many Ballet Folklorico companies in the United States. There are little to none outside of the American Southwest