Cuicacali, Academy of Folkloric Dance and Music at SF Mision
Conversations with Jesus Cortez
Cortez, dancing with Cuicacali
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Today we are showing a conversation with Maestro Jesus Cortez. He is the founder and director of the school of Dance “Cuicacali” in San Francisco, California. He started learning dance in his original hometown in Mexico under his Uncle Juan Natoli. For many years he expanded his knowledge and experience in renowned national and international schools of modern and folkloric dance. He is a choreographer a teacher and an avid defender of folk arts and traditions.
The word CUICACALLI means the “House of Culture” in Maya. Similar to the idea of Ateneo or Atenea in our shows. Jesus used to learn to dance as a child in his uncle’s academy also called Cuicacali. It was a house of a culture where children and adults alike would learn and work together to preserve cultural values through dance and music.
Today, as expressed by its founders, “Cuicacali values its mission to serve the diverse community of San Francisco with dedication towards excellent instruction, performances and community programs, for intergenerational students, artists and audiences of all backgrounds and continues to build communities through dance – expanding, exploring and celebrating the cultural traditions of the Americas.”
The school also has a music and mariachi branch which teach mariachi music, singing, and musical instrument to the community and local schools. Listen to the show and contact us with any comments or suggestions.
As usual, I want to thank you for listening to our show “Atenea Americana”, as part of my effort at Stanford Hispanic Broadcasting. You can help to make programs like this possible by leaving your comments, contributing with your ideas or materials, and also helping us raise funds. Remember to check our “Contribute” page to learn more.
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