DNCE 102 — : Introduction to Mexican Folkloric Dance: History, Culture, and Performance
This academic course explores the evolution of Mexican folkloric dance from its pre-Hispanic roots to its modern expressions in Mexico and the US. The course covers regional styles, cultural symbols, and the socio-political contexts shaping these dances. Students examine the relationship between dance, music, and costumes and how folkloric dance preserves culture, builds community, and empowers education. Additionally, the course highlights the impact of colonialism on Mexican dance and the resilience of Indigenous forms, offering insights into dance as a tool for cultural survival, resistance, and identity.