Orange County NC Website
2012-2013 Arts Program Grant— Fall <br /> Orange County Arts Commission <br /> Artist Biography <br /> General Information on the Group: <br /> The Ballet Folklorico Mexico de los Hermanos Avila was founded in 1972, by Jesus and <br /> Carmen Avila (brother and sister). They were later joined by a second and third <br /> generation of Avilas.Jesus is the director while Armando Contreras is choreographer, <br /> costume designer and artistic director. These dancers, musicians, artist, have <br /> entertained audiences for 40 years and in over 15 countries. They have been <br /> internationally recognized and named one of the most exciting groups presenting <br /> regional and traditional dances from Mexico, by the state of Wisconsin, as well as from <br /> the Mexican Government Tourism Office. Originated in Madison, but brought over to <br /> Milwaukee no more than 5 years ago. Today, they continue strive global prominence as <br /> they get ready for China in 2013. <br /> The dancers consider themselves multicultural ambassadors from around the world. <br /> Many of the dancers are college students; some come from Mexico, Puerto Rico and <br /> from as far as Japan and China. The dancers perform rigorously and in great precision <br /> practicing four to five days a week. The Ballet was created to preserve Mexican folk <br /> dances. It also, serves as a means to provide others with the opportunity to appreciate <br /> diversity among cultures. <br /> More information on Jesus Avila, one of the founders: <br /> Jesus Avila (Coahuila, Mexico, 1959) always had a deep love and passion for the arts. At <br /> the age of 13 he perused his vision and persisted to accomplish success. In 1972,Jesus <br /> Avila founded The Ballet Folklorico Mexico de los Hermanos Avila and now serves as <br /> the director and head instructor. <br /> Jesus Avila attends countless seminars, workshops and classes on Mexican folk dance <br /> throughout Mexico and the United States. He focuses on the true roots and traditions <br /> of folk music and dance, which has made The Ballet Folklorico Mexico de los Hermanos <br /> Avila truly unique. Audiences often find themselves transported to the Aztec Empire <br /> enjoying powerful performances. <br /> The Ballet Folklorico Mexico de los Hermanos Avila has performed in over 15 countries <br /> and every state in the U.S. The love to emit positive energy and passion for staying true <br /> to our authentic traditional outfits has always kept Jesus busy, even today. <br /> His love for Mexico is unconditional. After 40 years, he continues to contribute the <br /> preservation of Mexican culture thru music, color and dance. <br /> (Text from artist's website http://f(olkmexico.com and agent's website:http://class-act.comn <br />