Viva Mariachi - Week 50

Hello & Welcome Back!  Before we get started, I want to wish everyone "Happy Holidays!"  I also want to apologize for the erratic blogging and posting these past few weeks.  With the holidays upon us and all the year end performances, the blog has suffered.  But do not fear, I am still writing and posting, so please bear with me as we get through this busy season!

A special shout out to Afghanistan this week, thank you for joining in on my blog-dancing journey.  This week's topic is Mariachi.  I haven't really gone into the details of mariachi throughout the course of the blog yet.  I've mentioned briefly performing with them, the charro attire, and that it originated in Jalisco.  That's pretty much the extent of it thus far.  Truth is, you can't get too far into the world of folklorico without coming into contact with mariachi!  It's a wonder how this topic hasn't been addressed until now!  We are already at week 50, so lets not delay any further!
 

The term "mariachi" is diverse and can be used to refer to:  the type of a music style, a group of musicians that play mariachi music or music set and/or arranged for mariachi musicians to perform, or just one musician. So, how is the term defined?  Wikipedia explains:

"Mariachi is a form of folk music from Mexico.  Mariachi began as a regional style called "Son Jaliscience" in the center west of Mexico originally played only with string instruments and musicians dressed in the white pants and shirts of peasant farmers.  From the 19th and 20th century, migrations from rural areas into cities such as Guadalajara and Mexico City, along with the Mexican government's cultural promotion gradually re-labeled it as Son style, with its alternate name of "mariachi" becoming used for the "urban" form.  Modifications of the music include influences from other music such as polkas and waltzes, the addition of trumpets and the use of the charro outfits by mariachi musicians.  The musical style began to take on national prominence in the first half of the 20th century, with its promotion at presidential inaugurations and on the radio in the 1920s."
 

The size of Mariachi groups depends upon the availability of musicians.  Similar to the world of folklorico dancers, many mariachi musicians go from group to group to group.  Meaning, they'll perform with this group under this name today and then perform with a different group under a different name tomorrow.  Although some musicians stick to performing with the same group all the time.  Typically groups consist of as many as eight violins, two trumpets and at least one guitar; however, it is common to see up to three guitars.  Mexican folk harp is another instrument that you may see in the ensemble.  As far as the guitars are concerned there is the vihuela, a high pitched round-backed guitar which provides the rhythm, and the guitarron, which provides bass and rhythm. All the instruments are Mexican variations of European instruments.  Vocals are often provided by various musicians in the ensemble, taking turns singing lead.
 

As far as the term "mariachi" itself, Wikipedia states this about its origins:

"The word Mariachi was thought to have been derived from the French word mariage ('marriage'), dating from the French Intervention in Mexico in the 1860s, related to the music's appearance at weddings.  This was a common explanation on record jackets and travel brochures.  This theory was disproved with the appearance of documents that showed that the word existed before this invasion.

The origin of the word is still in dispute but most of the prominent theories attribute it to indigenous roots.  One states that it comes from the name of the wood from which the dance platform is made. Another states that mariachi comes from the indigenous name of a tree called pilla or cirimo; yet another states that it came from an image locally called Maria H (pronounced Mari-Ache)."
 

Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitian is recognized as the oldest and most famous of all the mariachi ensembles. It was founded by Gaspar Vargas in the late 1890s.  The ensemble tours throughout the world.  I have personally seen them twice, once at the San Manuel Casino in San Bernardino and the other time at Mariachi USA at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.  Herencia uses many of their musical arrangements to dance to.  

There are many, many groups out there.  Some of the other famous groups are Mariachi Sol de Mexico, Mariachi Los Camperos and Mariachi Divas, just to name a few.  Many groups have received Grammy recognition.  Recently I had the privilege of dancing the Jarabe Tapatio at a private event with Mariachi Los Camperos.  I have also had the pleasure of meeting and performing with several other mariachi over the past couple years.  It's always a highlight at any performance to dance with live mariachi. A personal observation I've made from performing with live mariachi is that they often speed up the tempo of the music during live performances.  I think they enjoy seeing the dancers sweat!
 

In addition to Mariachi groups, there are several individuals that have gained fame and stardom as mariachi musicians and singers.  It would be impossible to list them all.  In the United States, most people have heard of Vicente Fernandez, he is perhaps the most popular and recognized entertainer here.  A couple other names often mentioned are Jose Alfredo Jimenez - a great composer, and Javier Solis.  I recommend all my readers to spend some time to familiarize themselves with the music and people and groups associated with it.

Mariachi music is performed all over at all kinds of events.  Musicians are often expected to take and play requests, requiring the musicians to know hundreds of songs in their repertoire.  You can see them perform at festivals, fairs, religious celebrations, Catholic Mass, weddings, parties, Quinceaneras, and for private serenades - only to name a few places.  As I've mentioned in several of my blogs already, folklorico is part of the California culture.  Since folklorico and mariachi go hand in hand, the same can be said for mariachi music - it's part of the Californian culture.
 

Here in the Los Angeles area, several restaurants have drawn clientele by providing Mariachi entertainment for guests while they enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine. Sometimes they even have folklorico dancers accompany them for the shows.  Some of the local favorites include Casa Sanchez, La Fonda, Guadalajara Grill, Fiesta Mexicana, Pancho Villa's and La Paz.  The Sunday Mariachi champagne brunch is another favorite event Southern California's enjoy. And on weekend nights, it's always fun to go with a group of friends and watch the shows while enjoying drinks from the bar. Salute!  I have personally danced at Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant with the Mariachi there!  It was an unforgettable experience.  Richard and Herencia Mexicana was the resident dancers for Pancho Villa Mexican Restaurant for over four years.  You can still see them in the television commercials for the restaurant today.  Head over to the Pancho Villa's Mexican Grill & Entertainment website and view them!
 

In Los Angeles you will also find the Mariachi Plaza (Boyle Heights, specifically) that has gained much popularity for the mariachi that gather there and are for hire.  I have spoke of this landmark on several occasions during the course of my blog and look forward to performing there one day.  And yes, I'll blog about it and post pictures when that happens!  I believe it will very soon!

Another local event of great fame is the Mariachi USA concerts that happen at the Hollywood Bowl and are televised.  Visit Mariachi USA on their website or on Facebook to get all the information and updates for future events.  I attended the show this year for my first time.  Hopefully one day I'll go and see Richard perform there!  In addition to the concert at the Bowl, there are other events that take place in Las Vegas and a new one for 2014 in Cochella Valley!  You can also check out Mariachi USA Radio and enjoy the music 24/7!

What we see today of mariachi and the music is a modern development.  Wikipedia state this:

"The common perception of the music and look of mariachi developed in the 20th century, as the music was transformed from the regional folk music to an urban phenomenon that came to represent Mexico.  The music was first introduced in Mexico City in 1905."
 

So how did Jalisco become known as the birthplace? From my reading the origins of mariachi come from a variety of areas within Mexico.  Jalisco was very popular for the son style called son Jaliscience.  The song "La Negra" is among the most famous.  Son music featured string instruments and was divided into various regional varieties. Wikipedia states this as to origin:

"The distinction of mariachi from the older son Jaliscience occurred slowly sometime during the 19th century. The music originated in the center-west of Mexico.  Most claims for its origin lie in the state of Jalisco but neighboring states of Colima, Nayarit, and Michoacan have also claimed it.  However, by the late 19th century, the music was firmly centered in Jalisco.  Most legends put the origin of the modern mariachi in the town of Cocula, Jalisco."
 

As I wrap this week up, I want to touch on one last topic.  That topic being dance of course! Wikipedia says this:

"Mariachi's beginning as a son meant that it was originally a form of dance music and dancing is still important to mariachi.  The most common dance technique found with mariachi is zapateado, a kind of footwork from Spain with pounding movements into a raised platform that often provides the percussion rhythm of mariachi and son music.  The dance performed varies by region.  Another dance style associated with both son and mariachi is jarabe, including the Jarabe Tapatio or Mexican Hat Dance."
 

Although mariachi music is Mexican folk music, I see a growing trend of mariachi groups removing the dance element from live shows.  It has been expressed that dancers upstage the mariachi and people focus on the dancers more than the musicians.  How sad.  The two are one, but more and more I see mariachi and folklorico being separated, although the dancers still perform to mariachi music. Dancing always adds to a show in my opinion.  I think that we need to set aside any barriers and have more shows with both being represented.   That's my opinion anyway.

That's it folks!  Viva Mariachi!  Come back next week for Viva Navidad!  Until then, 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
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.

 

 

The World of Workshops - Week 22

Welcome back everyone to One Big Wedo.  Here we are at week 22, almost half way through the journey!  Lots of exciting posts coming up, be sure to keep checking back because you'll never know what you may find!  You might just be surprised!  This week Bosnia and Herzegovina checked in - Welcome!  It's nice to know that people all over the globe are reading and enjoying the blog.  I can't wait to see how this all wraps up at the end of the year.  And then what?  Hmmm, time will tell. 

Did you know that you can create a One Big Wedo icon link for your iphone?  Neither did I until someone showed me how this past weekend!  How cool is that!  It's so easy.  Technology is amazing!  I'm not certain, but you may be able to do it on other smart phones too.  Give it a try!  Here's how to do it.  First, you have to go to my page on your phone using Safari, Google or web browser of your choice.  Here's my web address:  www.onebigwedo.blogspot.com   Once there, press on the "box and arrow" function key on your phone and it will give you a list of options.  Press "Add To Home Screen" and voila, instant icon link on your phone!  Now you can just press and read.  I did it on my phone even though I write these wonderful pieces of literature!  Ok that's a stretch, creative writings rather.

Before we get started, I am amazed at how people continue to correct me on the word "guero"!  I am constantly being reminded that I spelled it wrong or that I left the dots over the "u" off.  I put it to rest weeks and weeks ago, but I have been bombarded the past couple weeks with people correcting me.  Perhaps it's because there are many new readers to the blog and they don't know all the history.  So I've tried all the web recommendations and instructions on how to do the umlaut on the "American Keyboard" with no success!  AYE!  I just don't think it was meant for me to do it!  But I promise to keep trying and looking further into it.  And as far as the word guero itself, I've been corrected repeatedly on how the word is spelled.  Some of the recent spellings are:  Guerro, Guedo, Huedo, Wero, Guelo, Wello.  One person even called me a "Whitexican" on Facebook.  Wow, the terms just keep coming, don't they?  I think it has gone far enough, let's have a council on the subject of guero and make an official ruling!  In the mean time, I just keep adding to the "guero" list.  Thanks everyone for your concern for the wedo's vocabulary and grammar well being.

With that said, let's get started.  With the holiday last Monday and being off work, it was a short week for me to write.  That's alright, because I'm certain that I will make up for it in the future.  This week I'm writing about folklorico workshops! 

The World Of Workshops:

Just like Santa has his workshop where he and his elves build toys for children all over the world, folklorico has workshops to build dancers.  Workshops can take a variety of forms, whether they be master classes, one or multiple day workshops, seminars/conferences, voyages to study under a maestro of dance and so on.  The ultimate goal is to learn technique and develop your understanding and skills which will make you a better dancer overall.  Oftentimes, they take you away from your comfort zone and expose areas you need to work on.  They are a great tool to utilize for growth.  Plus when you finish, hopefully you can share the knowledge with other dancers in your circle of folklorico influence.

While dancing with Imagenes, they had a guest teacher come and show us the region of Colima.  This particular teacher had spent time in Mexico to learn Colima regional dances and all the nuances and specifics that make that region unique.  She spent several weeks with us, giving master classes and working with us to learn the material.  Although I never fully learned the dances, nor performed them for that matter, it was fun to be exposed to them.  They reminded me a little bit of the Jalisco style of dancing.  I could also see some influence from Michoacan dances too.  This makes sense to me now because Jalisco and Michoacan are neighbors to Colima.  I am so happy that I am growing in my understanding of Mexico and the intertwining of influence and culture.

Here is a little history on Colima courtesy of eHow.com:

"Colima is located in west central Mexico and is bordered by the state of Jalisco to the north, east and west.  The state of Michoacan is south east and the Pacific Ocean is to the south.  Although Colima is one of Mexico's smallest states, it is a favorite with its tropical beaches, extraordinary scenery and rich history.  "Colima," in the indigenous Nahuatl language, translates to, "place conquered by our grandparents" or, "place where the older God dominates, " according to the ColimaMagic.com website.  The Otomi, Nahuatl, Tolteca, Chichimeca and Tarasca cultures thrived between approximately 2000 B.B. and 1000 A.D., as stated on History.com.  The Spanish arrived around 1522, led by Juan Rodrigues de Villafuentes, Juan Alvarez Chico, and Cristobal de Olid.  After obvious and successful resistance from the native people, a battle was won by Gonzalo de Sandoval in 1523 and a Spanish settlement was formed,  In 1540, a road was constructed between Colima and Mexico City and Colima became know as a center of commerce.  The fight for Mexican independence started in 1810 and Colima became a Mexican State in 1857.  Today, Colima is part of 'The Magic Towns of Mexico," a program of the tourism ministry that encourages economic development and restores and preserves cultural heritage."

Here are a couple video links of Colima dances being performed by Images of Mexico.  Enjoy!  Note:  These are informal videos that are not costumed performances.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmabR0qXkuk&feature=share&list=UUMvgKPegvoH7s8CpW82DSdg

and

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cMMd4-fEOk&feature=share&list=UUMvgKPegvoH7s8CpW82DSdg

I'm going to learn them eventually and hopefully have an opportunity to perform them someday! 

In addition to learning dances, steps, history and choreography, workshops also provide technique building exercises and routines.  These are called "technica".  I would compare it a pianist practicing scales or Hanon exercises or a vocalist practicing Vaccai methodology.  Technica is often shortened to sound like "tee-kah", which I am not sure exactly how to spell it, perhaps tica, teca, techca, teka, teche or techa works!  Take your pick!  Anyways, here is a short video of technica:   

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ID5Xuw8VG18&feature=share&list=UUMvgKPegvoH7s8CpW82DSdg

In December 2012, Herencia Mexicana IE held a workshop for some folklorico students at Franklin Elementary School in Redlands, California.  That Saturday morning Richard taught the region of Jalisco with the help of a couple of us from the IE group.  It was fun to help out that day and the students caught on quick!  Oh to be young again!  I can't wait to go back and do it again someday. 

Here is what the Houston Institute for Culture states about the Jalisco region:

"The Spanish colonized this area for an extended time. The men wore the big sombreros and the traditional Spanish charro suit with the silver studs on the pants and a big bow. The women folklorico wear is a ranchero design dress with unmistakable Indian influenced bright colored ribbons. This is the national representation for Mexican dance as is the Mexican hat dance which comes from this state. Jarabes, which means "sweet syrup," are best known as many of the dances are those of courtship and very flirtatious. This is also the birthplace of los mariachis -- the orchestras with trumpets, acoustics, violins."
 

On Saturday January 26, 2013 Danzantes Del Sol presented a Guerrero and Tamaulipas Workshop at South El Monte High School.  The region of Guerrero was taught by maestro Joel Sandoval.  The region of Tamaulipas was taught by maestro Rafael Valpuesta.  Both men are studied and experienced dancers.  I wanted to have the experience of going to an official folklorico workshop.  So I signed up to go.  I wanted to see if I could keep up in the classes with other dancers.  I also wanted to learn as much as I could.  It was do or die time!

The day started bright and early with a 9:00 am registration time.  The cost for both regions was $50.00 per person which included a copy of the music.  After several cups of coffee and a light breakfast it was time to get started.  At 10:00 am the event kicked off with the region of Guerrero. 

Here is what The Houston Institute for Culture states about Guerrero dancing:

"Guerrero is a tropical state on the Pacific coast. It was not only a haven to Asian influences that strayed and landed on its coast, but also a haven for run-away black slaves. In a presentation coordinated by the state of Guerrero, I witnessed a dance that looked like an old cliché about Africans dancing around a fire and being chased by a tiger. This was one of the folk dances archived by African slaves. The Africans also brought us the drum rhythms of cumbias and salsas. The Spanish slave trade distributed the sound in all of the Latin countries. I also heard a very Mexican sounding music from a line-up of Mexicans dressed in the traditional white pants and shirt, palm weave hat and huaraches. The women wore a shift dress with embroidered flowers, and their hair up in a bun. What was different? One appeared European looking; one black; one Asian; one Indian; and one was mestizo... the Mexican melting pot."

The Guerrero portion of the workshop lasted from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm and then there was a break for lunch.  Guerrero dancing is done with a bandanna in hand that is twirled while dancing.  The bandanna is also used to communicate with your partner, which is something specific that I learned from this workshop.  One aspect of Guerrero is that has a lot of turns in many of the dances.  That makes this wedo get dizzy!  All that spinning at my ages makes my core unstable.  Call me Weeble Wobble! 

When I first joined Herencia, Richard was teaching Guerrero.  It was one of the first dances I learned, although I have never performed it.  I remember how amazed I was and the joy I felt as I started to get the footwork down.  I could hardly believe that I was doing it and that the sound of the steps were actually coming from me!  I worked so hard because I wanted to impress Richard and for others to take me seriously.  With no real previous dance training, I had a lot to prove.  Richard enjoyed the Guerrero workshop so much that he invited Joel Sandoval to come hold a workshop for Herencia during our Guerrero segment of the 2013 dance schedule.  More on that in a bit. 

After  a light lunch consisting of hot dogs, nachos, cupcakes, chocolate, fruit and Gatorade - seriously, the workshop resumed with Tamaulipas.  This portion of the workshop lasted from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm.  Quite a contrast to the Guerrero.  I was particularly interested in this portion because Herencia was in the Tamaulipas segment of their 2013 dance repertoire.  Richard had already taught the group two Tamaulipas dances.  Now I would have an additional dance to add to my list!  I was a bit uneasy from all the spinning from the Guerreros that I found myself somewhat off center.  Through the whole Tamaulipas instruction, the teacher kept saying "dance from your core", "center yourself" and "stay grounded". 

I loved the Tamailipas because it was a slower dance that was different from many that I have seen and the ones Richard had taught me.  This one has a lot of fluid ballet movement and is very dramatically theatrical.  The song was about the fascination or myth of sirens or mermaids which is fitting for Tamaulipas as it lies next to the ocean.  From my understanding, the mermaids were tales that the men of the sea told that were actually based on the discovery of manatees in the ocean, which are common in The Gulf of Mexico.  As embellishment, fantasy and exaggeration carried out, folk tales and myths developed, resulting in the creature we call the mermaid.  What a contrast between the two - mermaids and manatees.

 
Here is what The Mexican Folkloric Dance Company Of Chicago via Jose Luis Ovalle states about The State of Tamaulipas:

"The Northeastern state of Tamaulipas is one of the most prosperous states in Mexico. Its original name "Tamaholipa" has become a controversy among the experts. Some say it means "Place of prayer", while others believe it means "Place of high mountains". Facing the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the East, and bordering Texas to the North, Veracruz and San Luis Potosí to the South, and Nuevo León to the West, Tamaulipas is the cross road between Northeastern and Central Mexico.  In colonial times, the state was part of the Spanish province of Nueva Santander, which included Southeastern Texas. Tamaulipas boasts a powerful economy based on oil, cattle, agriculture an tourism.

The Border Region:  Aside from their obvious impact between Mexico and Texas, Matamoros, Reynosa and Nuevo Laredo are very popular frontier towns because all three are close to Monterrey (The industrial capital of Mexico) and offer a straight journey to Mexico City and Veracruz as well as immediate entry into the U.S. El Norte, as this region is referred to is also the home of polkas and other European rhythms brought into Mexico in the mid 1800's. (See Tracalada Norteña)

The Central Region:  This area is shaped by the spectacular Sierra Madre Oriental, abundant in natural resources and also the home of Ciudad Victoria, the state capital. The abundant resources are a reason for celebration, and it is reflected in the typical dance of the region, called "Picota". Jumps, leaps, turns, hops and constant choreographic motion characterize this rhythm, which is believed to be a distant relative of Scottish folk dancing (brought into Mexico at the same time as the Polka). The music is provided by a drum and a clarinet.."Pito y Tambora".

La Huasteca Tamaulipeca:  Central to Southern Tamaulipas is known La Huasteca (Nahuatl: Land of gourds). It is a region of sub-tropical weather that encompasses parts of seven states and is located near the Gulf of Mexico. Tampico, Cd. Mante, and Tula are the most popular cities of la Huasteca Tamaulipeca. The liveliest Huapangos (Nahuatl: Dancing on a platform) come from this region.  The Huapango is a culture onto itself. It evolved from Spanish music interpreted and altered by the natives. Its closest relatives: Seguidillas and Fandangos are the two saddest forms of flamenco. However, la Huasteca is also a land of abundance (Including vast oil deposits), so the languorous "Cante Moro" or "Sorrowful singing" that accompanies Spanish music is transformed into a falsetto of joyous celebration.  The dancers wear their best chamois leather galas of local manufacture and the fiddler improvises musical passages and verses in a fast, light-paced melody. The Huapango is one perfect example of Mexican "Mestizo" (Mixed origin) culture."

This workshop exposed many, many areas that I need to improve upon.  I was amazed at how even basic steps presented challenges to me.  I couldn't believe it.  But overall, I think I did alright.  There was a wide range of experience between the dancers that took the class which I am certain presented a challenge to the teachers.  But we all got through it and I left with a sense of accomplishment and development.  One of the parents commented to me that I was "extremely focused".  I wanted to make sure I kept up.  Mentally and physically, it was exhausting.  You really had to pay attention in order to keep up because they move right along - with or without you!  After the workshop ended, it was off to folklorico practice with Herencia for another two hours.  By the end of the day, I had been on my feet for 7 hours dancing.  My legs were shot!  Aches and pains, aches and pains!  About an hour into Herencia's practice my legs cramped up.  They had enough and weren't having any more of it.  It took me a few days to recover!

 

On March 16, 2013 Herencia had Joel Sandoval come out to continue his Guerrero teaching.  Three hours of intense practice ensued.  We worked on two Guerrero dances that were different than the one we learned in the previous workshop.  So, I have been exposed to four Guerrero dances total.  Guerrero is a challenging region.  Not only do you need to focus on your footwork and the movement, but you have the added feature of the bandanna being held, twirled and flipped.  A coordination nightmare for someone lacking coordination.  That would be me! 

Of the four regions I have shared about this week, I have to say Tamaulipas is my favorite.  Perhaps that's biased because I have performed it and I like the fringed costume.  I have also performed Jalisco.  As I have stated several times before, Jalisco is challenging for me as it requires a lot of energy and a bit more assertiveness to dance it.  I think I would probably like Jalisco more if my sombrero fit my big head better too.  That would be less of a distraction and I would be able to focus on the dancing more, resulting in better performances.  I have a strong Colima curiosity and I want to conquer the Guerrero too.  Who knows!  Perhaps my opinion will change in the future and I will have a new favorite.   

It was nice to get a fresh perspective.  I think that it can make you more flexible when you learn to study under different people; however, I would recommend that you have some experience under your belt before you go exploring.  Otherwise you may get frustrated.  Plus, exploration is no substitution for your dedication to your own "home" group.

There you have it - The Big Wedo's experience with folklorico workshops.  One event I would like to experience is the Danzantes Unidos Festival.  Danzantes Unidos happens every year and many folklorico dancers from around the world travel to California to experience three days of workshops, performances, lectures, and classes.  This is something that I look forward to.  Of course, you'll know when I go because I'll be blogging about it!

In closing, I would like to mention that this week I started a folklorico boot camp.  What's that exactly?  I'm learning several new dances for a big show coming up in a couple weeks in Denver, Colorado.  Therefore, I'm calling it "Boot Camp"!  Yes that's right, Denver!  The kickoff of our National Tour?  I sure hope so!  If you're in the Denver area, make sure you come see us at Pridefest on June 15th & 16th.  Herencia is dancing on the "Orgullo Latino he Llegado" stage throughout both days.  Come say "hello".  Until next 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
E-Mail: Bf_herencia_mexicana@yahoo.com

Note: Looking for your own adventure or journey? Herencia is a great place to find one! Herencia Mexicana practices in Duarte, California.  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.