By Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS – APRIL 16, 2025 – The UTRGV Ballet Folklórico is once again dancing its way into the national conversation.

For the fifth time, the UTRGV Dance Program has secured a coveted spot at the American College Dance Association (ACDA) National College Dance Festival, marking a historic achievement for both the university and Mexican folk dance in academia.

UTRGV Ballet Folklórico during ACDA competitions on March 15 at Texas State University in San Marcos, TX. (Courtesy Photo)

This year’s festival, held every two years, highlights the nation’s elite college-level choreography and represents the highest recognition for university dancers in the United States.

This year’s festival and gala will be May 2-5 at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. ACDA competitions took place March 12-15 at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas.

“Being showcased at this gala is like making it to the finals of the World Cup,” said Miguel Peña, UTRGV director of Ballet Folklórico. “It highlights the seriousness and excellence of Mexican folk dance at UTRGV within the academic dance world.”

‘LA VERA-CRUZ’: A CULTURAL CELEBRATION

“La Vera-Cruz,” choreographed by Peña, was selected to represent the South-Central region at the national gala. Peña shared comments from the competition adjudicators, who praised the piece for its powerful celebration of cultural identity and exceptional integration of dance, music and visual artistry.

“This work celebrates traditions of our identities,” the adjudicators said. “The rich rhythms that infuse this piece weave seamlessly with the entire design – from the music and the set pieces to the exquisite costumes and props – to craft a vibrant and layered visual and aural culture. This work reminds us that we all come from somewhere and offers a radical joy that affirms life, relationships, and love.”

Peña said he is immensely proud of the UTRGV dancers.

“While it is my choreography, they are the ones who brought it to life, performing it like no one else before. All the credit goes to them,” he said.

A HISTORIC FIRST

In addition to Peña’s selection, student choreographer and dancer Emanuel Peralez, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts specializing in Mexican Dance, was recognized as second alternate for his innovative Mexican dance hybrid piece. His work was selected for the gala concert and named an alternate for nationals.

The milestone marks the first time both faculty and student choreography from UTRGV have been honored in the same year.

“UTRGV took two pieces: ‘La Vera-Cruz’ by Miguel Peña and ‘Hey, I’m Walkin’ Here!’ (my piece). Both made the Gala Concert – absolutely insane,” Peralez said. “But only ‘La Vera-Cruz’ got chosen for nationals, which is an amazing opportunity. I’m very excited to perform one more time with this incredible group.”

Graduate student dancer and longtime Folklórico member Elizabeth Stamatio Hernandez said the achievement is a dream fulfilled. She has spent seven years with the company, and recalls the last time UTRGV attended ACDA before she joined. It was an achievement she could only imagine at the time.

“Seeing the audience’s reaction to their work and their talent was something I’ll never forget,” Hernandez said. “So, when Miguel announced we were going to ACDA this year, it felt like a dream come true.”

UTRGV Ballet Folklórico during a recent dance presentation. (Courtesy Photo)

SHINING LIGHT ON THE ARTS

Hernandez emphasized the importance of these kinds of recognitions in the arts.

“They showcase the immense talent coming from the Rio Grande Valley and give people hope to aim high,” she said. “Recognitions like this affirm the importance of the arts within academia and broader cultural contexts.”

For Peralez, the recognition not only symbolizes a major achievement but also helps shift the perspective that dance is more than an extracurricular activity.

“Some people fail to notice that dance is a whole major, and we’re achieving these accomplishments – not just for the dance department, but for our university, city and culture,” he said. “When people watch these pieces, it might lead them to research more about UTRGV and could inspire them to follow our work or study with our faculty.”

Peña credited part of the dance team’s success to collaborations with campus ensembles, including Mariachi Juvenil Aztlán, and faculty such as Francisco Loera, senior lecturer of Mariachi and Mexican Folk Music.

“We’re grateful for their constant support,” he said. “Their contributions elevate our performances and bring our vision to life. Also, the support from our dean has been invaluable, making this a significant win not only for the dance department, but also for the College of Fine Arts, UTRGV and the representation of Mexican folk dance in the United States.”

To read more about the winning schools performing at the ACDA National College Dance Festival, visit this link.