Beverly Cohn
Editor-at-Large
Dressed in a profusion of colorful costumes, the acclaimed world dance company Folklórico de Santa Monica College performed an authentic collection of folk dances from around the world. South America, Mexico, Europe, Middle East, Africa and the United States were all represented, with an emphasis on dances depicting the rich history and lore of the Latino culture.
Under the direction of co-artistic directors Raquel Ramirez and Judith Douglas, the program, entitled “One Pulse,” consisted of over 20 dances choreographed by student, faculty and guest choreographers, including Laura Canellias, Angelina Meany, Jeffrey Page, Alejandro Ruiz, Tara Adkins, Gabriel Avila, Kimberly Bent, Gerardo Ferrero, Rosalba Jasso, Jasmine Henderson, Israel Meza, Tenneh Powers, and Monique Zierling.
The performance got off to a rousing start with a dance from the Mexican State of Tamaulipas based on ranchers moving to the beat of galloping horses at cattle roundups. Each segment has its own special ethnic flavor. Exceptional works include an American Step Dance that emphasizes precision footwork, rhythmic claps, taps and shouts, Middle Eastern belly dancing and an emotional closing dance set to modern jazz depicting the human condition.
The troupe’s highly skilled execution, coupled with their obvious joy of dance, creates a dazzling theatrical experience for all ages and judging from the wildly enthusiastic response, touched the ethnic hearts of many audience members.
Saturday, May 20, 2pm & 8pm, SMC Concert Hall, 1900 Pico Blvd., 310.434.3000, tickets, $15.
