Press Release

Ballet Folklorico at Tibbits

Date:  03/30/2009

COLDWATER, MI—

The music and dance of old Mexico with all of its vibrant color, exuberant energy and lavish costumes will liven the Tibbits stage as the Ballet Folklorico “Quetzalli” de Veracruz performs in breathtaking spectacle Monday, April 20 at 7 pm. 

The appearance of this internationally recognized ensemble is part of a collaborative effort with Tibbits, Young Michigan Dances, Altrusa International of Branch County and the Celebrating Cultural Connections effort begun by Michigan State University Extension.  According to Diane Godfrey, president of Young Michigan Dances, “This is an incredible opportunity to experience this style of dance and music by a company of this caliber right here in our community.”

Founded in 1985, Ballet Folklorico “Quetzalli” has criss-crossed the globe exciting audiences of all ages.  Their visual fiesta of culture and folklore features many regional dances including from their home state of Veracruz, birthplace of “La Bamba.”  The music performed live on authentic stringed instruments punctuates the meticulous movement, colorful clothing and perfect pulse of the dancers.  The group seeks to capture the spirit of the Mexican fiesta in the true style befitting their name, “Quetzalli” the Aztec word meaning “large brilliant tail feather.” The troupe of 18 dancers and musicians will present workshop performances at Legg Middle School and Bronson Junior-Senior High School earlier in the day. 

Through the performance, the Celebrating Cultural Connections hopes the community will appreciate the history and beauty of this art form from Mexico and South America.  According to Connie Lange, Extension Educator 4-H, “We recognize the growing Latino population in our county. This performance is as much for them to celebrate their heritage as it is to bring an understanding of their culture and the beauty of this art form to those of us from other cultures.”

As part of its efforts to improve multi-cultural understanding, CCC has coordinated appearances in the elementary schools by high school exchange students and students of various backgrounds. Students making the presentations represent Mexico, Japan, Thailand, Denmark, Russia, the Czech Republic and Spain, among others. CCC also provided books and materials to the elementary schools in Branch County. The materials feature various cultures and suggest classroom projects to celebrate diversity.    

Preceding the performance, CCC will present a Cultural Festival in the Tibbits Art Gallery. Students from the exchange program and others will provide hands on opportunities to learn about other countries without ever leaving Branch County.  The festival will begin at 6 pm and run until show time. 

Funding for the Ballet Folklorico has been provided by Altrusa and its International Relations committee, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and the Branch County Community Foundation Youth Advisory Council.

Tickets for this exciting performance are $20, $18 for Tibbits members and $10 for students. They can be purchased on line at www.tibbits.org, by calling 517-278-6029 or visiting the administrative offices at 93 W. Chicago St., during normal business hours. Tibbits Opera House is located at 14 S. Hanchett St., Coldwater. Tickets will also be available at the door.