Community News: BYNC Ballet Folklorico Celebrates 16th Anniversary

Since 1994, the Ballet Folklorico has grown from a small after school program with less than 20 participants into an award-winning cultural dance group of almost 300 members, from toddlers to grandparents, that not only gives youth a positive after-school environment, but fosters confidence and cultural pride.

Today, nine youth dance groups receive instruction on a daily basis and our Ballet de Padres group gives parents the opportunity to participate, promoting family unity and parental involvement. Four of our nine youth groups participate in performances throughout Chicago and nationwide, having made appearances in California, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Through the hard work and commitment of our participants and loyal supporters, the BYNC Ballet Folklorico has become internationally renowned. In 1999 and in 2000, we won the title of “Best of the Best” at the Viva Aztlan Theater and Dance Competition in Lubbock, Texas; and in 2004 we took First Place in the Midwest at Challenge USA Folklorico Competition in Cicero, Illinois. Today, our dancers continue to strive for excellence. BYNC’s Ballet Folklorico won the Best Overall Trophy at the Viva Aztlan Dance Competition in 2007 and 2008, which, for the first time in 14 years, was awarded to a children’s group.

None of this could have been possible without the help of dedicated supporters. To express our gratitude and to share the results of this hard work, we are proud to present the Ballet Folklorico’s 16th Anniversary performance “Viva Mexico” on May 15th and 16th, where the children will perform for their supporters, neighbors, families, and friends in a professional setting featuring hand painted scenery that maximizes the impact of their performances and emphasizes the historic and cultural value of Ballet Folklorico.

From all of us at the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council and on behalf of all of the children and families who have benefited from this program, thank you for your interest in the Ballet Folklorico. Please contact Patricia Flores or Salvador Cisneros for more information or tickets at (773) 523-4416.