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Posted: 11/22/00

A&M International Presents Free "Las Posadas" Concert Fri, Dec. 1

 

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The traditions of Mexico will be celebrated at Texas A&M International University with the fourth annual "Las Posadas" concert on Friday, Dec. 1, at 7 p.m. in the University's Kinesiology/Convocation Building.

The free event will include a reenactment of Joseph's and Mary's journey through Bethlehem plus performances by the University's Ballet Folklorico, Ballet Folklorico Juvenil, and Mariachi Internacional. The Univesity Band will also perform a prelude before the concert.

The reenactment processional will begin with an explanation and historical overview of posadas. Audience members will be invited to join the reenactment processional. Afterwards, members of the University's Ballet Folklorico will perform traditional dances from different regions of Mexico.

Las Posadas organizer Gabriela Mendoza-Garcia, Associate Director of Student Development at A&M International and former professional folklorico dancer, said the dances will showcase the varied styles of Mexican folk dance.

"A lot of people think Mexican folklorico dance is just one type of dance, but each region of Mexico has its own traditions. The dances and costumes are as unique and so is the music of each region. For example , the flute and percussion mark the exciting rhythms of Mazatlan while the fast music of Veracruz relies on the harp. The accordion frames the music for the polkas, redovas, and schottisches of the northern region of Nuevo Leon. Together, these dances embody the soul of Mexico through dynamic music, dazzling costumes, and refined dances," said Mendoza-Garcia.

She noted that the students who will perform for Las Posadas are glad to have a chance to display their moves.

"It shows that their training and hard work has paid off," she explained.

The Ballet Folklorico, directed by Mendoza-Garcia, is comprised entirely of A&M International students.

The A&M International Ballet Folklorico Juvenil, also directed by Mendoza-Garcia, is comprised of 5- to 18-year-olds enrolled in a children's ballet folklorico class offered through the University. The group will perform dances from Chiapas, Veracruz, and Jalisco including "El Rascapetate," "El Colas," and "El Autlense."

The University's Mariachi Internacional, directed by Dr. Rachel Cruz, will perform a selection of mariachi favorites.

After the entertainment, a free reception featuring traditional Mexican refreshments will follow. The concert and reception are sponsored by the A&M International Ballet Folklorico and the University's Student Government Association.

For more information on Las Posadas at A&M International Dec. 1, please contact Mendoza-Garcia at 326-2280 or the Student Government Association office at 326-2265.

University office hours are 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