Festive, Free Celebration of Traditional Las Posadas at TAMIU Friday, Dec.3

On Friday, December 3, Texas A&M International University's Ballet Folklórico will present the ageless tradition of Las Posadas at 8 p.m. in the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Recital Hall.

This event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Gabriela Mendoza-García, director of the TAMIU Ballet Folklórico, explained the tradition of Las Posadas.

"In the nine nights before Christmas, groups of families re-enact Mary and Joseph's search for lodging in Bethlehem. They travel from house to house, carrying figures representing los peregrinos, or the pilgrims. At each house, those outside sing and request a place to rest. Inside, the residents respond in song, denying their request. Finally the last house welcomes them, and all join in singing Entren Santos Peregrinos," explained Mendoza-García.

She said this was a Mexican tradition and now a TAMIU tradition, having been performed at the University since 1997.

"The TAMIU Ballet Folklórico and the TAMIU Ballet Folklórico Juvenil work hard every year to bring this lovely celebration of song and dance to the people of Laredo. We are very grateful to everyone who helps out," said Mendoza-García.

She said this year Dr. and Mrs. Gilberto Soto will portray Joseph and Mary.

"TAMIU Ballet Folklórico chose them because of their many contributions to the group. We are honored to have such wonderful supporters," said Mendoza-García.

After the processional, many different folklórico groups from across Laredo will dance, said Mendoza-García. Groups include the González Middle School Ballet Folklórico, Honore Ligarde Elementary, Ballet Folklórico de Aquiles Serdán,Bonnie L. García Ballet Folklórico

"And finally, the TAMIU Ballet Folklorico will close the evening with performances from the states of Michoacan, Chiapas, Zacatecas, Veracruz, Sinaloa, Jalisco and the revolutionary period in Mexican history. It's a truly festive evening," said Mendoza-García.

She said the event is funded by The City Of Laredo and TAMIU Student Programming Board.

For more information about Las Posadas, please contact Gabriela Mendoza-García at 326.2654, visit offices in the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, room 217B, or e-mail gabym@tamiu.edu