Children's Ballet Folklorico Class Begins Oct. 14 at A&M International

Boys and girls in elementary, middle, and high school are invited to enroll in "Mexican Ballet Folklorico" classes at Texas A&M International University.

The classes will be held on Saturdays Oct. 14, 21, Nov. 4, 11, and 18 in the University's Kinesiology/Convocation Building, Room 204.

Class times for girls and boys are: 10:15 - 11:15 a.m., grades 7th - 12th (ages 13 - 18); 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., grades 4th - 6th (ages 8 - 12); and 12:30 - 1:30 p.m., grades 1st - 3rd (ages 5 - 7).

Tuition is $30.

Classes focus on dance principles to build strength, balance, posture, grace and discipline. Students will learn the basics of "zapateado" footwork and the fundamentals of Mexican Ballet Folklorico including correct skirt work, dance techniques, and performance style. Additionally, Mexican culture, traditions, and customs will be explored.

Instructor will be Gabriela Mendoza-Garcia, director of the Texas A&M International University Ballet Folklorico and former dancer with the Roy Lozano Ballet Folklorico de Texas.

To register or for more information, please call the Univer-sity's Department of Special Programs at 326-2700, or visit offices in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 332. 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 pais@tamiu.edu