Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklórico de Texas provides a number of opportunities for both adults and children to learn about ballet folklórico. These include performances and enrollment in the dance school.

RLBFT's School of Dance

The dance school was begun as a way to share the knowledge of the dance and music of Mexican folklore to Mexican American children and as a vehicle to train future dancers. Today, classes are offered for children from 5-18 years of age; as well as an adult beginning class.

Children are taught not only the steps and choreography of the dances, but also the history of each one. From learning about the region from which the dances come, to the mixing of cultures that developed them, to the significance of the costumes, props and music, children leave with a better knowledge about Mexico and its rich cultural heritage. Children, whether Mexican, Mexican American or from other countries of origin, also leave with an appreciation and pride not only in their accomplishments, but in Texas’ neighbor to the south.

Classes are taught at the children’s level of development, ensuring that children experience enhanced self-esteem, increased coordination, flexibility, and physical fitness.

Children move from the beginning and intermediate classes to the Children’s Performing Company, to the Junior Company. Each year the complexity of the dances they learn and their knowledge of ballet folklórico and Mexico increases. Finally, they are invited to audition for the professional company. A number of the professional company began as five year old children. Today, they are leaders in the company.

Children whose parents cannot pay receive scholarships that cover the cost of tuition. Additionally, unlike other folklórico groups, children do not have to buy their own costumes many times at a cost of more than $800. The costumes are provided for each child, ensuring that cost is not an issue and that all children can experience the thrill of performing. The costumes, jewelry and props are authentic for each region and each year RLBFT expands it’s collection of costumes, props, headpieces and jewelry.
The yearly recital in December is the culmination of a year’s hard work. All children participate, and for many, it is the first time they have ever been on a stage. Held at a local school’s theater, it is standing room only, filled with parents, extended family and friends.

The Children’s Performing Company have also performed for dignitaries ranging from former First Lady Rosslyn Carter to Prince Charles. Each year, they participate in Fiesta at the Paramount Theater and at Zilker Hillside Theater. They are also in demand for private performances for organizations and companies throughout central Texas.

The Junior Company performs at Lively Arts, Fiesta and Noche de folklór. This year, they entered ther first competition at Bailes de mi tierra in Bastrop, TX. They won first place in both the categories in which they were entered.

Lively Arts

Each year, RLBFT offers a series especially prepared for the school children of central Texas. Early in September, both public and private schools receive an invitation to participate in the low-cost series. Tickets are only $3.00, ensuring that children from all socio-economic levels can participate. The series takes place at the Paramount Theater. For many, this is the first time they have ever gone to that type of venue.

RLBFT prepares a special study guide for each teacher’s class that includes information about ballet folklórico as well as the regions that will be performed. The teacher can use the curriculum to prepare the children for the performances and teach children about Mexico.

During the performance, the master of ceremonies provides information about the regions and the historic significance of the dances and costumes. Over 3600 children attend the performance.

Cinco de Mayo

RLBFT’s professional and junior companies travel to schools each Cinco de Mayo to help celebrate the holiday. The half-hour performances include information on the history and significance of the not only the dances, but also the holiday.