A&M International's Ballet Folklorico Hosting Free Workshop

Applications are being accepted through Tuesday, March 28 for a free "Master Folklorico Dance Workshop" to be held at Texas A&M International University April 1 - 2.

Sponsored by the University's Ballet Folklorico group, the workshop is designed for students 14 years or older who have at least one year of Mexican folklorico dance experience. Admission is limited to the first 40 qualified applicants.

The free two-day workshop will be conducted at the University in the Kinesiology/Convocation Building on Saturday April 1 from 2 - 6 p.m. and Sunday, April 2 from 12 - 4 p.m.

Michael Raye Carmona, founding member and current coach of El Grupo de Danza y Arte Folklorico de La Universidad de Tejas, will conduct the workshop.

Carmona, a respected dance professional, became director and choreographer of the UT Ballet Folklorico in 1978. Currently, as the group coach, he creates new works, helps organize workshops by renowned folklorists in Mexico, and maintains the wardrobe and accessories.

Among the lessons he will teach workshop participants are dances from the Mexican states of Yucatan and Nuevo Leon.

The workshop is made possible through funding from the Texas Commission of the Arts.

For an application form or for more information, please contact Gabriela Mendoza-Garcia, Dance Director of the University's Ballet Folklorico group at 326-2280. University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu