By Alvaro Ayala

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS – JUNE 11, 2025 – This weekend only, UTRGV Ballet Folklórico will blend traditional folklórico with hip-hop, salsa, flamenco, and step in its latest production, Ouroboros 2025.

Set for June 14-15 at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg, the showcase offers a fresh take compared to the company’s well-known production, Alegría, which highlights regional Mexican folklórico styles, said Miguel Ángel Peña-Caballero, director of UTRGV Ballet Folklórico.

“This show aims to gather all the best qualities from our dance department to put on a well-rounded production,” Peña-Caballero said. “The audience will come in expecting skirts and mariachi, but they won’t expect flamenco, salsa, and hip-hop. That surprised look they have at the end – that’s the most rewarding part.”

The Saturday performance begins at 7:30 p.m., while Sunday’s show starts at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $10 for seniors and students, and $5 for children.

A DANCER’S PERSPECTIVE

Angela Marentes, a senior double majoring in civil engineering and dance, described Ouroboros as the most challenging production she has been part of during her three years with Ballet Folklórico.

“It makes you step out of your comfort zone,” she said. “It’s not your regular skirt work, and it’s not your regular steps. You’re doing salsa, flamenco – all these other genres of dance many of us aren’t used to.”

Originally from Dallas, Marentes moved to the Rio Grande Valley after discovering the region’s deep appreciation for folklórico.

“Even though this show has been a challenge to prepare for, I’m able to connect the dancing styles I grew up practicing,” she said. “We’re all pushing each other. The more experienced dancers are guiding the newer ones. You feel like a team – but also like family.”

Tickets can be purchased one hour prior to the event or online at www.utrgv.edu/arts.