Heritage Through Dance
Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization celebrating the colorful tradition of Mexican folkloric dance. Led by experienced dancer Vanessa Ramirez, the dance troupe began as a recreational class, one of very few East Valley folkloric groups in operation, and has grown exponentially. It now includes students in age from 5 years old to adults who enjoy a fun and exciting way to express themselves through dance and learn about Hispanic heritage.
I am SO THANKFUL for having such wonderful students .They are all so amazing, full of energy and they are a blessing in my life.– Vanessa Ramirez Director
The lesson
What is taught...
Students learn dances from various regions of Mexico. Not only do they have fun and get good exercise, but they receive a small history lesson with each dance. Each week students are assigned a homework assignment related to the region of Mexico where the dance they are learning originates. Each child shares in class what they have learned in a presentation. This encourages self-esteem through cultivating public speaking skills as well as the showmanship of performance. It is wonderful to observe the growth and confidence that these young children develop in a short time. Our director believes in a holistic approach to dance that centers on developing the individual capacities of each dancer, emphasizing:
- Discipline
- Responsibility
- Teamwork
- Community Service
- All while having fun!
A firm but patient approach to teaching builds for the dancers and their parents a second family where they can live, love, and dance!
Meet Our Team
Vanessa Ramirez
Director, Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli AZ
Lizeth Alonso
Interim President / Grant Coordinator
Randi Ruiz
Registrar Coordinator
Veronica Fregoso
Performance Coordinator
Rania Alvarez
Volunteer Coordinator
Advisory Board Members:
- Deanna Hernandez
- Karen Beltran
- Grizelda Celaya
- Karem Medina
- Alejandra Burruel
Grant Team
- Eden Andrade
- Dr. Ruby Alvarado Hernandez
- Ray Ostos