Ballet Folklórico – Vestuarios de Ballet Folklórico /Fashion of Ballet Folklorico: Expressing Mexican Culture through Dance on view at IAM

A special exhibition featuring traditional outfits used for Ballet Folklórico, courtesy of Alegre Ballet Folklórico, is on view at Irving Archives and Museum (IAM). Curated by long-time Folklórico dancer and IAM Apprentice, Dominique Avila Fleming, the exhibition highlights several states across Mexico and the regalia used in the dances. The exhibition is presented in bilingual (English – Spanish) text and offers a variety of educational activities and resources.

With roots tracing back to the Indigenous peoples of Mexico, Ballet Folklórico is highly varied in style and dress, and reflects the traditions, cultures, and beliefs of people in a particular geographic region or state in Mexico. Through its movement and music, Folklórico expresses the life and spirit of a people.

From the Curator

“Growing up in a diverse environment in Dallas encouraged the cultivation of my Mexican roots through the influence of my mother’s family and my involvement with Alegre Ballet Folklórico. One of my core childhood memories is my mother dragging me to a class early one Saturday morning because my sibling wanted to dance, and she insisted they not go alone. What began as a hobby many Mexican children are forced to attempt, has transformed into an integral part of my life that I am deeply passionate about. I am grateful to the incredible talents of my director, Pedro Perez, and lead female dancer, Jessica Garcia. Their guidance and shared avid love for dance are the reason I made it through that first class twenty years ago, and why this exhibit exists today. When I decided to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, my goal was to find ways to cultivate connections between people by highlighting the universal threads that run through our distinct customs worldwide. While every culture possesses its own unique identity, there exists a tapestry of interrelated aspects that often go unnoticed. My intention is that this exhibition will not only reflect my passion for studying and celebrating culture but will invite patrons to expand their appreciation for Mexican heritage as well as inspire them to explore other unfamiliar traditions from around the globe.” – Dominque Avila Fleming

About the Curator

Born and raised in the Dallas neighborhood of Oak Cliff, Dominique Avila Fleming has always been involved with the community through volunteering and interning at the Oak Cliff Cultural Center. She is an ensemble member and group assistant of Alegre Ballet Folklórico, with whom she joined at the age of six, and has since danced across Texas, Mexico, and Oslo, Norway. Her passion for exploring cultures outside of her own led her to obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Texas at Arlington. Currently, Dominique is an apprentice at the Irving Archives and Museum, a teaching artist for Cara Mia Theatre Company, and continues her work with the Oak Cliff Cultural Center as well as with Latino Arts Project.

This exhibition will be on view September 16, 2023 through February 4, 2024.