The Oxnard College Ballet Folklórico Mestizo will present their annual spring dance concert, May 6 & 7, in the new Oxnard College Performing Arts Center. Under the direction of Oxnard College English Professor, Matilde “Mati” Sanchez, the Ballet Folklórico Mestizo will celebrate their 30th anniversary this year. Colorful & authentic costuming, intricate choreography, and lively toe-tapping, captivating music await concertgoers as this dance troupe performs dances from various regions of Mexico.

This is quite a historical event as the 32-member strong dance troupe comprised of Oxnard College students, alumna, faculty and staff will be the first group to ever present a live performance in the newly constructed state-of-the-art facility. The Oxnard College Performing Arts Center was constructed under the Ventura County Community College District’s Measure S Bond construction program made possible by the Ventura County voters in 2002.

While unique to the Ventura County Community Colleges, the Ballet Folklórico Mestizo, are considered Ambassadors of Oxnard College. They enthusiastically perform at various community events, schools and venues throughout Ventura County. Their mission is to educate, motivate, and inspire the community to develop an appreciation of the music and dances of Mexico by way of the Performing Arts.

The festivities will begin with a pre-performance reception in the Oxnard College Performing Arts Black Box Theatre, May 6 & 7, at 5:30 p.m. Live entertainment on Friday provided by Mariachi Águilas de México and on Saturday by Mariachi Estrellas de Jalisco. The concert will begin at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $10 in advance and can be purchased at the Oxnard College Bookstore, 986-5826 and the Oxnard College Student Business Office, 986-5811. $12 general. Box Office opens at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 986-5800, ext. 1944, or email msanchez@vcccd.edu. Free event parking after 5:00 p.m.