Chihuahua, Chiapas & Baja - Week 43

Howdy folks and welcome back to One Big Wedo! Hong Kong visited the blog this week!  Thanks for checking me out!  Is everyone getting ready for Dia de Los Muertos?  I am!  In fact, I'll be blogging about my experience of it for sure! So check back to read all about it!  You can start reading up on it by going to most post on week 30 called "The Day Of The Dead".  In the mean time, HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

 

This week I want to take a look at three regions that I've talked about in my blog but never really went into much detail.  What are they?  The states of Chihuahua, Chiapas and Baja.  Let's take a look together at these three and see what we can discover.  We danced all three of these regions recently at our LA County Fair performance.  Visit my blog for week 41 called "Herencia's 2013 L.A. County Fair Show - The Sequel" to view costumes and photos from these regions!

Chihuahua:

 

One of the first thing that comes to your mind when you say the word "Chihuahua" is the little dog with the big dog mentality and sharp little teeth!  This breed has received a lot of attention thanks to Taco Bell commercials and hit movies like Legally Blonde.  They have certainly become and American icon representing Mexican culture, just like the cartoon character Speedy Gonzales!  Do you remember him? You remember!  

 

It may come to a surprise to many that Chihuahua is not only a breed of dog but is actually a state in Mexico.  Did you know that?  I had no clue until after I started dancing and learning about my neighbors to the south.  I wrote a post on week 3 called "The United States of Mexico" that you should read that introduces all the states in Mexico.  Here is what Wikipedia states about the State  of Chihuahua:
 

"Chihuahua, officially Free and Sovereign State of Chihuahua, is one of the 31 states which, with the Federal District, comprise the 32 Federal Entities of Mexico.  Its capital city is Chihuahua.  

It is located in Northwestern Mexico and is bordered by the states of Sonora to the west, Sinaloa to the southwest, Durango to the south, and Coahuila to the east.  To the north and northeast, it has a long line with the U.S.-Mexico border adjacent to the U.S. states of New Mexico and Texas.  

Chihuahua is the largest state in Mexico by area, with a mainland area of 247,455 square kilometers (95,543 miles), it is slightly larger than the United Kingdom.  It is consequently known under the nickname El Estado Grande ("The Big State").
 

Although Chihuahua is primarily identified with the Chihuahuan Desert for namesake, it has more forests than any other state in Mexico.  Due to its vibrant climate the state has a large variety of fauna and flora.  The state is mostly characterized by rugged mountainous terrain and wide river valleys. The Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, an extension of the Rocky Mountains, dominates the state's terrain and is home to the state's greatest attraction, Las Barrancas del Cobre, or Copper Canyon, a canyon system larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon.  On the slope of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains (around the regions of Casas Grandes, Cuauhtemoc and Parral), there are vast prairies of short yellow grass, the source of the bulk of the state's agricultural production. Most of the inhabitants live along the Rio Grande Valley and the Conchos River Valley."
 

Sure sounds like cowboy country to me!  Sign me up!  Other states of Mexico that border the United States of America include Baja California, Sonora, Coahuila, Nuevo León and Tamaulipas.  These states all are in the Northern part of Mexico (or Norte).  The land of the cowboys and home to what we call Norteno or Nortena music which often consists of accordion instrumentation and a western sound.
 

While researching folk dancing from the state of Chihuahua, I found very little information in English in print.  I was disappointed as this is one of my personal favorite regions to dance. Sounds like a good opportunity for a maestro or maestra of Chihuahua folk dancing to write about it.  This is what I was talking about in my post on week 32 called "Why A Blog".  There is a need for people to write in English about the various Mexican folk dance forms and publish them for all to enjoy and learn. 

Basically, all I found about Chihuahua folk dancing is that it is often danced in couples to polka music.  Now I have often associated polka music and dances with Germany.  I have several German polka records that sound almost identical to many of the Chihuahua dance songs.  One resource states that the Chihuahua folk dances were heavily influenced by the Czech polkas.  I don't have a very discerning polka pallet so I can't explain to you the distinguishing differences between polka styles.  I have also heard that it was a common form of saloon dancing.
 

As far as costuming, I have seen many folklorico groups use Norteno suits for the men and cute polka style dresses for the women.  Although I have seen some groups dance it in western wear as well.  I have also seen several groups dance songs similar to line dancing, not in couples.  Often common is the long trenza braid for the women and cowboy hats for the men.  The men hold their belt buckles when they are not dancing and/or holding their partner.

One resource I found, escamillaentertainment.com, lumped the Northern States all into one category and states this:

"Norte:  The northern part of Mexico, also known as Norte, is recognized for its energetic and joyful dances.  These dances, the polkas, chotis, and redovas became popular during the Mexican Revolution of 1910 with some dances evolving as recently as the 1970's.  The music and dance forms are highly influenced by Central European countries, including Austria, Czechoslovakia, and Germany, mother of the accordion sound that is now symbolic of "Norteno" music."

 

 

So what exactly is polka music?  Wikipedia explains: 

"The polka is a Central European dance and also a genre of dance music familiar throughout Europe and the Americas.  It originated in the mid 19th century in Bohemia.  Polka is still a popular genre of folk music in many European countries and is performed by folk artists in Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Croatia, Slovenia, Germany, Hungary, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Ukraine, Belarus, Russia and Slovakia.  Local varieties of this dance are also found in the Nordic countries, United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Latin America (especially Mexico), and in the United States.".
 

Recently, I took an adult beginners class/workshop at the Steps of Gold Dance Studio in Whittier, California hosted by Paso de Oro Dance Company.  Much to my surprise they taught Chihuahua!  I really enjoyed the class.  It was so much fun.  I would definitely go back if I lived closer to that area. It was a bit much to get there on a Friday in rush hour traffic.  I would highly recommend it to anyone in that area.  Check out Paso de Oro Dance Company on Facebook and look for upcoming events for more information.  If you want to dance, this would be a great place to go.
 

Other Northern states in Mexico also do polkas, including Tamaulipas.  I wrote about Tamaulipas back in week 22 in a post called "The World of Workshops."  Here are some of my personal favorite videos clip links from YouTube of various polkas:
 

 

Tamaulipas Polka Video:

http://youtu.be/Ncj4J7v-kQs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9Fd5yOSVDE&feature=share&list=PL59126DA0756DDB7C

 

Chihuahua Polka Video:

http://youtu.be/Gl9vIdQcLYA

http://youtu.be/J4d5o0Rk58A

http://youtu.be/B3Xx7ovGako

 

Now before we move on to Chiapas, I need to share an event that I have been completely avoiding in my blog.  I have made it a priority to be as transparent as possible and share my folklorico experience completely - even if it has been embarrassing, shameful or unpleasant at times.  So allow me to tarnish my good image some more!  I was contemplating writing a whole post called "Tiffs & Tantrums" or "All The Ugly Stuff" but I've decided not to give it that much attention and just address it here. So here you have it!  I have to own up the fact that I have had some pretty rotten attitudes at times. One such "attitude" resulted during Richard's first attempt to show me a Chihuahua dance, hence the reason I bring it up here.
 

In one of our final dress rehearsals for a show that was happening the next day, Richard wanted to add a Chihuahua dance.  We were in the last few minutes of practice and he wanted to show me the dance so I could perform it the next day.  Now you know how I stress over shows, so it may come as no surprise the panic and the lack of desire that arose.  He started showing me the dance  and I wasn't open to it.  It didn't help that the dance was one where the men fight each other over the girl.  So you can see where this was headed.  "Houston we have a problem!"  Things flared up and got heated under the pressure and the Wedo snapped.  I'm ashamed, embarrassed and continue to beat myself up over it still to this day.  To make a long story shorter, the dance didn't happen for that show.  I wish I could say this is the only time this has happened.  Some people just like to test my high blood pressure!
 

I like to be prepared and ready.  I hate things at the last minute.  These episodes of ugliness have always resulted from last minute, under pressure situations.  I obviously need to manage them better. I read a quote just today that said, "Amazing things rarely happen in your comfort zone." Other times this occurred from a partner not cooperating and/or not wanting to be handled and led, from a partner not being prepared or a song version changed to another with a much faster tempo. So that's it, folklorico people can have an attitude, myself included.  The circumstances may make it understandable why, but it doesn't excuse or justify the nasty reaction and make it right.  So I take ownership for my actions and publicly apologize to Richard and anyone who saw it happen, ever. No one is more disappointed than I.  Thank goodness that has't happened often.  Moving on.

Chiapas:

 

The next region I want to introduce is Chiapas!  Let's head south together for a visit!  Here is what Wikipedia says about Chiapas:
 

"Chiapas, officially Free and Sovereign State of Chiapas, is one of the 31 states that, with the Federal District, make up the 32 Federal Entities of Mexico.  It is divided into 118 municipalities and its capital city is Tuxtla Gutierrez.  Other important population centers in Chiapas include San Cristobal de las Cases, Comitan, and Tapachula.  Located in Southwestern Mexico, it is the southernmost State of Mexico.  It is bordered by the states of Tabasco to the north, Veracruz to the northwest and Oaxaca to the west.  To the east Chiapas borders Guatemala, and to the south the Pacific Ocean.

In general, Chiapas has a humid, tropical climate.  In the north, in the area bordering Tabasco, near Teapa, rainfall can average more than 3,000 mm (120 in) per year.  In the past, natural vegetation at this region was lowland, tall perennial rainforest, but this vegetation has been destroyed almost completely to give way to agriculture and ranching.  Rainfall decreases moving towards the Pacific Ocean, but it is still abundant enough to allow the farming of bananas and many other tropical crops near Tepachula.  On the several parallel "sierras" or mountain ranges running along the center of Chiapas, climate can be quite temperate and foggy, allowing the development of cloud forests like those of the Reserva de la Biosfera el Triunfo, home to a handful of Resplendent Quetzals and Horned Guans.
 

Chiapas is home to the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque, Yaxchilan, Bonampak, and Chinkultic.  It is home to one of the largest indigenous populations in the country with twelve federally recognized ethnicities.  Much of the state's history is centered on the subjugation of these peoples with occasional rebellions.  The last of these rebellions was the 1994 Zapatista uprising, which not only succeeded in obtaining new rights for indigenous people, but also constructed a world in which they have realized their own vision of freedom and autonomy, and continue to fight for a world in which other worlds are possible."

As far as regional folklorico dancing from Chiapas, escamillaentertainment.com states this:

"Chiapas:  The music and traditional dances of Chiapas are very cheerful and come from both indigenous and Spanish roots.  The Marimba, which is the most represented instrument of this state, also owes its roots to African rhythms.  To the company of the sounds from the wood instrument, these dances are simple but carry rhythmical steps that can become frenetic with complex footwork. The Danzon has become a signature dance of the region, performed in such dances as "Las Chiapanecas" and "El Alcaravan""
 

The Mexican Folkloric Dance Company of Chicago and Jose Luis Ovalle states this about Chiapas:

"State of Chiapas:

Echo of the Southeast:  Chiapas is located in the southeastern region and is the "other" frontier of Mexico.  Its name comes from the Nahuatl:  Chiapan of the river of Chia.  Most of this state is embedded in a semi-tropical forest full of vegetation and wild life and is the home to various indigenous groups, direct descendants of the Mayan civilization that inhabited the area before the Spanish conquest.  

Chiapas is sub-divided into several regions, each demarked by the most predominant indigenous group.  Because of this regional and ethnic division, the state's folklore is extensive and varied.  It includes several styles, most of which are reminiscent of ancient Maya rituals that have managed to survive to the present.  These dances either include mocking animal moves or sounds or are still extremely religious in their themes.  

The dance style follows the "son" style found in the rest of Mexico:  Intricate foot stomping, partner choreography or soft, waltz-like tempos.

Costuming:  It would take a complete, web site to describe the immense and rich variety of daily use costuming of Chiapas' ethnic diversity, not including the celebration and religious outfits.  However, what has become the traditional "Chiapas" costume is a modern creation that has captured the vivid colors of local flora against the darkness of the jungle. [Hence the black]
 

Listen to the Mirimba:  Music for indigenous dancing is also varied, it is played on harps, flutes, wind orchestras, violins, marimbas, or plain percussion.  Typical music for the Chiapas "son" is mostly played on marimbas of local manufacture. 

The marimba is a percussion instrument similar to the xylophone that came from Africa into Mexico during the colonial period by the African slaves.  The original instrument created the resonance with tuned water filled gourds.  But the abundance of precious woods in the Chiapas and Guatemala jungles have provided the resonance bars that to the present characterize this masterful instrument. Marimbas have been the source of inspiration for many Mexican musicians, while most of Guatemala's folklore is played on them.  The destiny of both locations lived a converging history some time ago."
 

For my readers that would like to explore more of Chiapas and have some fun, I recommend you visit PELINKS4U.org's site for Mexican Folkloric Dance.  On their site, under Example 2, they have a dance from Chiapas you can learn!  Complete with steps and videos.  Go check it out and give it a try!  They even write out the steps, kind of like I use to.  Check out my blog from week 14 called "Breaking the Language Barrier" to learn how I write out steps!

One thing I want to mention about the women's Chiapas dresses is the intricate colorful floral designs.  These are embroidered floral prints that I would compare to needlepoint canvases.  The strings composing the flowers can snag easily, so it is important to avoid anything that may cause damage!  For example, you don't want to collide with another dancer wearing a sequined China dress That would be disastrous!  Trust me, I've seen it happen!  Read more about China dresses on week 12's post "A Tale of Two Chinas".

Recently we went to a church fair in San Bernardino at Our Lady Of The Rosary Catholic Church. The fair had plenty to offer:  games, food, car show, mariachi and, you guessed it, folklorico!  Both Resplandor de Mexico and Ballet Folklorico Tierra Flor y Canto performed.  Mariachi Infantil-Juvenil Corona de Angeles also performed.  Tierra Flor y Canto presented an interesting Chiapas dance about a boar.  One young boy represented the boar, complete with boars head on top of his own.  I really enjoyed the dance, even as hunters came and killed the boar, carry him off on a stick! Boars are common to the jungle and this dance makes much more sense now that I know a little history of Chiapas.  Here are some pictures of the days event at the fair:

 

 

 

 

Tierra Flor y Canto also presented Baja and did an amazing job.  This leads us right into the next region, Baja!

Baja California Peninsula:

The Baja California peninsula is located in northwestern Mexico and separates the Pacific Ocean from the Gulf of California. The peninsula is home to two states, Baja California and Baja California Sur.  Here is a little information on them from Wikipedia:

 

"Baja California, officially Free and Sovereign State of Baja California, is the northernmost and westernmost of the 31 states which, with the Federal District, comprise the 32 Federal Entities of Mexico.  Before becoming a state in 1953, the area was known as the Northern Territory of Baja California.  The state is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean, on the east by Sonora, the United States of Arizona, and the Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortez), and on the south by Baja California Sur.  Its northern limit is the U.S. state of California.  Over 75% of the population of the state lives in the capital city of Mexicali, in Ensenada, or in Tijuana."

"Baja California Sur, lit. "Lower California South", officially Free and Sovereign State of Baja California Sur, is the second smallest Mexican state by population and  the 31st admitted state of the 31 states which, with the Federal District, make up the 32 Federal Entities of Mexico.  Before becoming a state on October 8, 1974, the area was known as the South Territory of Baja California.  It is bordered to the north by the state of Baja California, to the west by the Pacific Ocean, and to the east by the Gulf of California, also known as the "Sea of Cortez."  Also, the state has maritime borders with Sonora and Sinaloa to the east across the Gulf of California.  The state is home to the tourist resorts of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.  Its largest city and capital is La Paz, a tourist resort and historic landmark."
 

As far a regional folkloric dancing from Baja, Texas A&M University states:

"The "cowboy dances" of Mexican folkloric dance, Baja California was born in the late 1950's as the Nortena style began to gain popularity.  The dancers interpret various jumps, turns, and kicking movements from the animals and how the cowboys handled them."
 

Often you will see men and women in plaid shirts, vests, bandannas and western hats.  Women typically where denim pencil shirts and cowboy boots.  Men wear tight denim jeans with cowboy boots.  These dances are very energetic and highly recognizable by the rolling circular leg movements.  This is one region I have not danced yet, but I'm down to give it a shot sometime.

Wow!  That's a lot of info!  And just think, I typed it all on my cell phone!  Before I check out, go like my One Big Wedo page on Facebook.  I almost have 200 likes already!  Join the fun!  Have a great week, Wedo out!  

Come see us perform:
 

!!!ATTENTION!!!  STARTING ON NOVEMBER 7, 2013 HERENCIA MEXICANA WILL BE OFFERING BEGINNER CLASSES IN SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA AT THE ARTS ACTIVITY CENTER @ THE NATIONAL ORANGE SHOW ART GALLERY.  ADDRESS IS 689 SOUTH E STREET.  CLASSES WILL BE EVERY THURSDAY FROM 7-9 PM.  MONTHLY DUES WILL BE A FLAT RATE OF $20 PER PERSON.  COME ON OUT!
 

Contact Information for "The Big Wedo":

Google E-mail: onebigwedo@gmail.com
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Contact Information for Ballet Folklorico de Herencia Mexicana:

Richard Solorzano, Director: (909) 201-1957
Facebook: Herencia Mexicana
Facebook: Herencia Mexicana IE (Inland Empire)  
E-Mail: Bf_herencia_mexicana@yahoo.com

Note: Looking for your own adventure or journey? Herencia is a great place to find one!  Folklorico lessons and performances are both available. Herencia Mexicana performs for private & public events of all kinds. Book your event today! Herencia Mexicana welcomes new students. No previous folklorico or dance experience required.  All are welcome.

 

Who is Herencia Mexicana? A History! - Week 42

A special welcome to the country of Jersey this week!  The blog continues to expand globally!  Wow!  The more folks share it, the quicker we can achieve total world wedoness! Oh my!  Thank you for all your help in spreading the word!  I exceeded 6000 pageviews this week!  If anyone wants to come out and see us perform, here are some upcoming events!

  

"Who is Herencia?"  This was the question recently asked on Facebook after I posted the LA County Fair folklorico schedule.  Even after 23 years of folklorico performing throughout Southern California, many are not familiar with the name or the group.  This inspired me to write a general history of the group so folks would know who we are, where we came from, what we do, and how we operate. Welcome to this week's post!  I wrote about the group briefly back on week 11 in a post called "I Believe In Herencia".  Here's a little more history, some awards & recognitions, and a few vintage photos (note: I went through thousands of photos of the group - there's 23 years worth!  Hope you enjoy these).  

As I mentioned last week, a biography highlighting some of the groups achievements was read at our recent show at the 2013 L.A. County Fair.  This is what was read:

"In 1990, a team of parents formed a dance group under the direction of Richard Solorzano.  The name, Nuestra Herencia Mexicana Ballet Folklorico was given by Grace Solorzano, grandmother to Richard.  Nuestra Herencia Mexicana entertained throughout Southern California with vibrant dances and colorful costumes. The humble community based group performed for the San Bernardino School Districts and in Riverside and San Bernardino County fairs, including The National Date Festival in Indio, The National Orange Show in San Bernardino, The Orange Blossom Fair in Riverside and The Victorville Fair.  Nuestra Herencia Mexicana performed annually for Disneyland’s Magic Music Days [on the Carnation Plaza stage]. 

 

 

In 2005, Richard R. Solorzano Jr. revamped the group under the new name, Ballet Folklorico de Herencia Mexicana.  Keeping true to the foundation set by his father, Richard took the community group and transformed it into a performing dance company.  Herencia Mexicana has been seen on TeleMundo, Estrella TV and in television commercials for Pancho Villa’s Mexican Restaurants which are located in Fontana and San Bernardino, California [as well as other local television stations].  Herencia Mexicana was the resident dance company for Pancho Villa’s Mexican Restaurant for over 4 years [performing weekly with Mariachi International de Mexico.  Visit Pancho Villa's website to view videos of Herencia dancers at the restaurant].

Presentations have included city events, colleges & universities, mariachi concerts, parades, special events, fiestas and festivals, accompanying Mariachi Sol de Mexico and Las Reynas de Los Angeles on several different occasions, including the first two years of The Riverside Mariachi Festival.  Other presentations include performances at Olvera Street in downtown Los Angeles, Plaza Mexico in Inglewood, The Riverside Festival of Lights, Workman and Temple Family Homestead Museum in City of Industry, The LA County Fair in Pomona and The Orange County Fair in Long Beach.     

Recently, Herencia Mexicana returned from providing entertainment on the Latin stage for the UNO-Unidos N Orgullo organization’s 2013 event in Denver, Colorado - which is the third largest festival of its kind, drawing 350,000 people.  Herencia Mexicana was invited and showcased at Folklorico Dance Competition 2007 in Las Vegas, Nevada.  In 2012, Richard Jr. was sought as a judge for the annual Ballet Folklorico Competition held at the Anaheim Market Place.

For Presentation Bookings please contact Richard R. Solorzano Jr. at (909) 201-1957 or by email bf_herencia_mexicana@yahoo.com ."

Other names affiliated with group are Ballet Folklorico de Herencia Mexicana de Richard Solorzano, Herencia Mexicana, Ballet Folklorico Nuestra Herenacia Mexicana, and Herencia Mexicana de Richard Solorzano.  Rehearsals for the group have taken place at various locations throughout Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties.

 

In the beginning, Richard's parents, Richard (Rick) and Cristina Solorzano, sought out Jose Ruiz de la Torre to teach the group in 1990.  He had been referred to them by the mother of Nina and Michelle, sisters, who were instructors for Herencia.  Mr. Ruiz de la Torre was living in Silverlake, near Los Angeles, and was retired from teaching and performing folklorico dancing.  Mr. Ruiz de la Torre had been a dancer for Sylvia Lozano's Ballet Folclorico Nacional de Mexico Atzlan or Ballet Folclorico Nacional de Mexico Atzlan de Sylvia Lozano and had a rich history of professional folklorico dancing.  Although he initially did not want the job, Mr. Ruiz de la Torre agreed to teach after seeing the potential in the group and in Richard Jr.  Mr. Ruiz de la Torre stated that "Richard had what it takes and he would go far".  

Once a month, Richard's parents would go to Silverlake to pick Mr. Ruiz de la Torre up at his home and drive him to Redlands for practice.  He would then show Nina Luna, Michelle Escalante and Richard Jr. the technique and dances and then they, in return would teach the rest of the group for the rest of the month.  Nina and Michelle had both previously studied folklorico under Mr. Ruiz de la Torre's instruction.  Before his passing, Mr. Ruiz de la Torre gave Richard Jr. his personal Azteca costume, including an eagle head dress, and two Azteca capes that he himself had help create. Richard Jr. stills owns them to this day.

 

When asking Nina Luna about Jose Ruiz de la Torre, she stated this:  

"I started studying with him when I was very young. I started when I was around 4-5 years old and he stopped instructing us probably when I was around 10 years old. He very much helped Nuestra Herencia get off the ground. I think my mom helped Rick get in contact with him to see if he would be willing to come and instruct us. Michelle and I were already instructing at that time but we needed a new outlook on the dances and choreography. My grandmother knew the family for many years and my mom grew up with them. 

The one thing I remember about Jose that I will never forget and it was his passion for dancing. He was so graceful and just passionate. He demanded your attention and your respect and when you were in his presence and you did not want to give him anything less than what was expected of you. His very presence filled a room. We loved him so very much. He gave us a pride in our heritage that to this day, those that were taught by him, still have."

 

Other influences contributed to the development of the "Herencia style".  In addition to the foundation set by Mr. Ruiz de la Torre, there were many other factors that helped establish the dance look that Herencia is known for today.  One factor is that shows are built from an audience expectation, meaning what audience members want to see in order to be entertained, excited and engaged.  This resulted in highly choreographed numbers with lots of constant movement and energy.  People don't want to see dancers just stand there and dance, that gets boring.  They want to see movement!  

It was very important to Richard Jr's parents that the audience remained alert and engaged. Therefore, the rule of no stopping the music between numbers was implemented.  Costume changes need to be quick.  No down time.  This can be challenging for a performer. Audience members get bored quickly and you can lose their attention, so you have to keep the show rolling. Just recently, we attended a show of another dance group and they took too long changing costumes.  Everyone thought the show was over and left.  They didn't get to finish their show.

 

Another aspect of Herencia shows is keeping the music upbeat and energetic.  Too many dramatic dances and/or slow dances loses the audience.  Footwork sequences are often switched up.  Richard dislikes it when groups do the same footwork verse after verse, it gets boring.  He prefers that Herencia footwork changes each verse to give the audience something different to watch and experience.  This becomes a memory challenge for the performer!  Although Herencia encourages personal enjoyment and tries to make things fun for their dancers, shows are strictly business and professionalism is expected.

 

Overtime, as Richard Jr. took a more defining roll in the group, he spiced up and altered many of the original dances. Even so, when I watched YouTube videos of Sylvia Lozano's group, I could still see elements of influence from her style within the group that were passed along through Mr. Ruiz de la Torre. Herencia also took many workshops, including several with Disney choreographers as part of the Disney Magic Music Days.  Richard's personal dance career also influenced the development of the Herencia style as he performed with numerous groups and worked with various dancers, choreographers and instructors from all over.  I will be sharing more of his personal experience in a post on week 51.  

 

Richard himself describes his Herencia style as very "showy".  He agrees with critics that it isn't "traditional" at times, although he has a respect and appreciation for the traditional culture.  Nonetheless, the audience is pleased and gets the show they desire. Richard once stated to me, "Most people who come to a show are not there for a history lesson in what is "traditional" or "authentic".  They have an appreciation for the heritage and culture behind the dance style and want to be entertained.  Therefore, at times, I move away from the realm of what some declare as "traditional" in order to show off the detailing in the women's dresses, so audiences can be "wowed" by the beauty of them."

One maestra made the comment to me, "Richard's skirt work is not as traditional, at times, as what many groups consider to be traditional.  However, even skirt work that most consider traditional, isn't traditional.  There's traditional, traditional!"  My reply to her was, "So what you're saying is that traditional, really isn't traditional!"  Sometimes I wonder if people just claim that any skirt work other than what they do, and/or how they do it, is non-traditional because they are not accustom to it.  I've seen several groups do skirt work very similar to Richard's, so I've deducted it is a common, accepted practice.  You've read my arguments throughout my blog on all that, lets move on!

 

Richard has often said of Herencia's dances that they are "set for show" or "performance", rather than "competition".  He states, "In competition you definitely want to keep it more traditional." Even so, Herencia has competed in the past, taking first and second places at the Indio folklorico competition.  Herencia also competed in the Santa Ana folklorico competition for two years, taking first and second place as well.  As mentioned earlier, Richard also served as a competition judge at the Anaheim Marketplace's annual folklorico competition.  

Richard has set the focus of his group, Herencia, on performing and entertaining.  He does not like all the unpleasant behaviors commonly seen between rival dancers in competition. Although he will agree that you see a lot of great talent at competitions.  His focus is more on creating art and unity for show, rather than competition. Therefore, he no longer takes the group to compete.

 

When it comes to the men, Richard expects the men to be men and represented as such.  The man always leads the woman.  The woman always follows the man; however, women should know the dance completely.  Men should exude confidence, masculinity, and strength.  Yet, men are to be gentlemen like, accompanying their women, without upstaging them.  It's the mans responsibility to make his partner shine on stage.

 

There is a lot of kissing action in folklorico dancing!  Herencia is known for having a flirtyness between couples.  This had led to the practice of extremely close kisses between couples! Richard wants his couples to get in each other face and space!  He wants the audience to believe couples are actually kissing.  If someone snaps a photo, regardless of the angle, it should appear as if they actually are kissing!  Sometimes, in all the commotion, you do!

 

Richard's teaching style is very patient.  He breaks down the steps in detail, which is great for learning.  He is mild mannered, yet, has a professional expectation of everyone.  He expects everyone to take the dancing seriously.  He does not throw tantrums like some directors.   He feels a persons dancing will reflect their level of commitment.  He feels the individual dancer is responsible for their own growth.  You are representing yourself on stage, although you're preforming in a group and his name is linked to the group overall.  If you mess up on stage, it's a refection of you.

  

Much of his ideology stems from his belief that the only motivation for dancing is if you want to do it, not because someone makes you do it.  You, as a dancer, have to want it. Richard expects his students to practice at home and be prepared.  To his credit, he has taught many student from scratch.  Many have gone on to other performing companies. One of his students went on to dance with Pacifico.

 

Over the years, Herencia has attracted a wide range of dancers.  Experienced dancers, that have been part of the group, stated they joined because it was creative and different.  They like that Richard thinks outside the box. Many have stated that his repertoire is challenging and complex at times - not the simplified versions of dances that many groups perform.  Many have come to develop themselves, to become more flexible dancers, grow, learn and expand.  Several have commented how they enjoy themselves, it's fun and refreshing doing something different. Some stay only a while and then move on!  Several have gone on to start new folklorico groups.  Even so, Richard's group remains!  The group has also hosted several folklorico workshops as well.

 

 

As common in most folklorico groups, tattoos and piercings are not allowed on stage.  Nor is multicolored or radically dyed hair!  No pink, blue, purple, green or any other trendy hair color! Leave the colors for the dresses! This has led to some altercations between dancers and Richard over the years, as refusal to cover tattoos or conform to the image has resulted in dancers being pulled from a dance or show entirely.  A good rule of thumb I have heard many dance instructors tell their dance students is, "think before you do something.  Remember you're a dancer and need to be presentable on stage."

 

Another thing I give Richard credit is that he encourages dancers to be light on their feet and take care of themselves.  He discourages slamming/stomping footwork and over dancing, even when it may make the footwork sound more impressive.  How many dancers at a very young age have had knee surgeries or short dance careers due to this?  Richard has been dancing for over 24 years and has never had any knee problems. He has taken care of himself.

 

 

One last defining characteristic of Herencia is the practice of being prepared should the music suddenly stop.  Richard expects his dancers to know the dance, even if the music should cut out during a performance. No stopping!  You carry on as if the music is still playing.  Although this rarely happens, it has happened.  I have been reviewing many videos of past performances.  During one of the groups performances at the LA County Fair years ago, when the group was at one of its peaks, the music suddenly stopped.  The group continued dancing as if nothing happened, with full choreography.  The audience went wild!  Later, Richard told me that was the first time the group had danced that particular dance.  It was awesome.

 

Herman Melvil said, "It is better to fail in originality than succeed in imitation."  Originality always comes with a certain amount of risk and criticism, but it has worked for Herencia Mexicana for over 23 years!  Sustained over the years by the work and efforts of Richard Solorzano Jr., Herencia continues to provide quality performances that audiences enjoy.  Call and book a show today!

 

In 2012, Herencia Mexicana began a process of change.  The group needed a make over!  That sounds fun, doesn't it?  All dance groups go through seasons of change.  They have their peaks and valleys.  I have seen many groups, just in my short visit with folklorico, come and go or become the latest hot, trendy group.  

 

So what has changed with Herencia?  First of all, costuming.  Richard started to redesign and create all new costumes and a new look for the group!  Over the years, Richard's original designs and patterns for the dresses have been copied and taken by other groups and individuals as their own; therefore, Herencia needed to find a new look.  As they say "copying is the sincerest form of flattery."  In this case, it's costly and annoying.  Even the business cards are getting a whole new look!

Herencia provides the costuming for their performing dancers.  Dancers do not purchase or make their own costumes!  Most groups make you buy your own costumes, which is costly.  At Herencia, dancers are provided with a costume to use during performances.  All costuming remains the property of the group.  They are not for the dancers to keep.

 

Secondly, practice locations.  Richard is now teaching out of Covina and San Bernardino, California. This makes it easy and convenient for dancers to find a location close them to practice!  LA County dancers go to Covina.  Inland Empire dancers go to San Bernardino.

Thirdly, collaborations.  Richard is doing a lot more of this, teaching Herencia material to dance groups that support in Herencia shows.

Fourthly, compensation!  Richard is able to pay his dancers for some private events now.  Public events for publicity and exposure remain unpaid.

 

Fifth, lower monthly dues!  Everyone loves saving money!  Herencia has cut their monthly membership dues in half!  Also, Herencia offer two free classes for new students.  Can't beat that! And you won't be paying for costumes either!

Lastly, for Richard's performance group, age ranges from 14 year old and older. He is still instructing children and beginners, just in a separate setting from the performing company.

 

If you are looking for a folklorico home, consider Ballet Folklorico de Herencia Mexicana.  Also, any trained folklorico dancers that are interested in learning Herencia's material for paid performing opportunities, contact Richard for details and an audition/interview.  Herencia is seeking new dancers, from beginners to trained and experienced.  We would enjoy having you!  Contact Richard at 909-201-1957 or check us out on Facebook.

In closing, folkloricochannel on YouTube reposted several older Herencia performance videos! Thank you folkloricochannel!  Go have a look.  Search "Herencia Mexicana Folklorico" and they'll come up.  Some other group's videos come up too because they have a similar name, you'll have to filter through them.  That's all folks for this week!  Wedo out!

Contact Information for "The Big Wedo":

Google E-mail: onebigwedo@gmail.com
Facebook: One Big Wedo (Guero)
Twitter: Michael Smith @onebigwedo
Blogger: www.onebigwedo.blogspot.com

Contact Information for Ballet Folklorico de Herencia Mexicana:

Richard Solorzano, Director: (909) 201-1957
Facebook: Herencia Mexicana
Facebook: Herencia Mexicana IE (Inland Empire)  
E-Mail: Bf_herencia_mexicana@yahoo.com

Note: Looking for your own adventure or journey? Herencia is a great place to find one!  Folklorico lessons and performances are both available. Herencia Mexicana performs for private & public events of all kinds. Book your event today! Herencia Mexicana welcomes new students. No previous folklorico or dance experience required.  All are welcome.