With support from the California Arts Council, Ballet Folklorico El Tapatio de San Dieguito will continue to offer free and reduced-cost Mexican Folklorico classes to dancers from low-income families. Funding will support salaries for the group’s instructors for lessons throughout the year and the purchase of dresses used in performances. Funds will also help cover rental costs for practice space.
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.

