Fiesta Folklorica

Written by: Alina Ferguson, Anthropolgy and Journalism student

Though the March night was cold and the rain was falling down hard, in the auditorium of Gist Hall it was warm and light, as family, friends and supporters packed the seats to witness The Fiesta Folklorica, a production to showcase the student dancers. Rows of colorful flowers filled the room, from delicate yellow button poms to vibrant purple daisies. Cheering and applause erupted as the announcer proclaimed that we were about to witness a “celebration of the culture of Mexico through dance and music.” 

The clicking of heels and twirling of festive dresses was very hypnotic. The mariachi band was expressive and versatile. Some of its members soloed singing and playing the trumpet. They also brought in a non-student guest violinist who was a Humboldt University Alum and guest singers. Representing a number of traditional Mexican dances,  audience members were impressed by the student dancers balancing cups and trays on their heads while spinning, dipping, and twirling. There was a dance with machetes and in it, someone danced blindfolded, as they tossed the machetes up, down and to the side, caught them with smooth ease. The opening act was choreographed as a  “fight” between two people. There were shields and swords and they clashed and left the audience captivated.

The immense fun the dancers appeared to be having was infectious. At the culmination of the show, audience members joined the dancers on stage and participated in dancing, hugs and conversation. 

The show was directed by Jackie Silva and Linda Maxwell. Linda Maxwell was also one of its choreographers. 

“I choreographed dances from the state of Sinaloa, Mexico, along with guest artist Horacio Heredia, who choreographed one of the three dances. Sinaloa is one of my favorite regions because of the fast, challenging footwork and quick skirtwork.” She added, “I have directed dozens of folklorico shows at a different college. It is a lot of work and attention to details between coordinating the dances, the Mariachi, securing the spaces to rehearse and perform, to making sure all costumes (vestaurio) fit the dancers, along with headpieces and hats. Jeff O’Connor, faculty emeritus, was instrumental in organizing the over 250 pieces of costuming. As for the final result, that was the "payoff" in directing, is seeing the growth, energy, and pride of the students in performing these dances and music.”

“This is the second year of "Fiesta Folklorica" which we intend to make an annual event. Before this we have had folklorico dances on our spring dance program "Dance Visions" concert, and in 2016, we did a joint concert with a  guest company, "Los Lupenos de San Jose". 

“All the work was worth it to experience the students’ growth!”