With support from the California Arts Council, Ballet Folklorico El Tapatio de San Dieguito (BFETdeSD) will be fully supported in FY2020-21 to execute its programming and high quality deliverables. Funding will directly support personnel expenses of four key persons (Ballet Folklorico Instructor, two Community Engagement Coordinators, and Bayside’s Associate Director of Development) in the amount of $5,550. The remaining $4,300 of the ask will be used for program supplies and materials.
Ballet Folklorico San Diego Dance Company (BFSDDC) predominantly serves the community of Linda Vista in San Diego, where more than a third of BFSDDC students reside. BFSDDC gives the socio-economically under-served residents a space to express themselves and grow while adding culture and vibrancy to the community through their Mexican dance performances. Students and their parents grow in several ways as participants. First, they learn and can execute technical, authentic, Mexican dance skills. Second, they learn specific trades like sewing (maintenance of dresses), cosmetology (makeup and hair for performances), and marketing (promotion of performances). Third, they learn traits of teamwork, diligence, and respect as members of an ensemble and confidence as performers. The program develops the person, child, individual, and their parents. BFSDDC provides an authentic, cultural experience that celebrates the Mexican history and regional heritage.