Center for Latin American Studies

Folkloric dance, like the English term “folk dance”, means dances of the people. This type of dance reflects the traditions, cultures and beliefs of people in a particular region. Folkloric dance expresses the life and spirit of a people through its movement and music. It is both historical and current, preserving tradition yet shifting with the current times.

This teacher packet includes:

• background information for Ballet Folklorico
• History of Mexican dance, including: ritual dance, Conquest and Spanish Influence, Dance and Christianity, the combining of cultures
• The Evolution of dance and its modern form 
• Timeline of Mexican History
• Additional information about Mexico "At a Glance"
• Links to Lesson Plans and Informational Websites