The school is committed to serving the community through dance instruction for children, young and older adults, and for teachers to use in the classrooms. In addition, it is also committed to awarding scholarships to most highly dedicated and talented students studying ballet folklórico under school district ballet folklórico dance programs. Experienced instructors teach the classes.
Schedule of Dance classes |
Mondays
6:30p - 8:30p Beginnner Adult (Instructor- Chuy Chacon)
Tuesdays/Thursdays
7:00p - 9:00p Professional Adult (Instructor-Chuy Chacon)
Saturdays
9:00a - 10:00a Children's Beginner (Instructor-Marisa Cano)
10:05a - 11:05a Children's Intermediate (Instructor-Marisa Cano)
11:30a - 12:30p Children's Performing Co. (Instructor-Chuy Chacon)
12:35p - 1:35p Junior Girls (Instructor-Gabe Torres)
1:40p - 2:30p Junior Couples (Instructor-Gabe Torres)
2:30p - 3:30p Junior Boys (Instructor-Gabe Torres)
|
 |
School of Dance
The dance school was begun as a way to share the knowledge of the dance and music of Mexican folklore to 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. The children’s classes take place every Saturday, while the adults meet on Mondays. The year is divided into two semesters—January-June and July-December.
When can my child start?
Children should be 5 years of age and be able to tell their left from their right; listen and follow directions; and enjoy dancing and physical activity.
What do they learn?
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 originate, 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 own 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.
|
|
Girls must wear:
 a black leotard
white tights
pink ballet slippers
black character shoes (miguelitos)
Turquoise blue practice skirt
and hair in a bun (RLBFT sells the buns)
|
Boys must wear:
white t-shirt (no logos)
black shorts or sweat pants
white socks
black ballet slippers
black character boots (miguelitos)
|
Students are not allowed to wear personal jewelry of any kind during practice or performances. All hair must be neat and combed. Girl’s hair must be in a bun, no bangs. |
|
|
What about costumes?
Unlike other folklórico groups, children (or professional dancers) do not have to buy their own costumes. The costumes, including headpieces, props and jewelry are provided for each dancer, ensuring that cost is not an issue and that everyone 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.
When will my children perform?
The beginner’s and intermediate classes are not performance classes, but there is a yearly recital (in December) where children wear costumes; and an open class at the end of June.
Sounds great, how soon can my children start?
It is important that children and parents observe a class before placing the child on the waiting list. Families are invited to observe Saturday mornings at 9:00 am and get a feel for the class and what their children will learn.
There is a waiting list. Typically, families wait about six months before an opening.
How much does it cost?
The cost is $270 per semester; families are allowed to pay month-to-month ($45). Families that pay the full semester receive a 10% discount. There is a $40.00 one time, non-refundable registration fee.
Where are you located?
We are two blocks east of the intersection of Berkman and Briarcliff Blvd. Turn east onto Briarcliff, go through the stop sign (street magically turns into Gaston Place) and we are located on the next block on the left, next to Windsor Park Veterinary Clinic. The address is 1928 C Gaston Place.
Sounds great, but when are the performances?
Typically, Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklórico de Texas has the following public performances:
Jan/Feb--Lively Arts a special series for school children, held at the Paramount Theater.
June—Fiesta the annual 2 hour show at the Paramount
August—Noche de folklór 2 hour show at Zilker Hillside Theater.
December—Fiesta Infantil recital for the school of dance
How can I support RLBFT?
Send a tax-deductible contribution to:
RLBFT
1928 C Gaston Place Drive
Austin, TX 78723
Buy tickets for you and your friends to the annual show in June at the Paramount
Buy an ad for the Fiesta or Noche de folklór shows
|
