For one hour audiences will be transported into the heart of Mexican culture, experiencing the traditions, history, and art that have defined Calpulli Mexican dance company’s performances.
By: Joanna Basciano
On the afternoon of May 8, 2025, the stage of the 1P Williamson Theatre at the College of Staten Island will come alive with swirling skirts, vibrant music, and the rhythmic footwork of the Calpulli Mexican Dance Company.
“I’ve never even been to a dance recital of my sisters,” said Donald Delprete, a student at CSI.. “But, I’m open to going and experiencing something new.”
The Calpulli Mexican Dance Company was founded in New York City in 2003 and is known for its main mission to celebrate the rich diversity of Mexican and Mexican-American cultural and heritage through dance and live music. Their performances are not just displays of technical skill/dance but they are narrative journeys that put together stories from various Mexican regions such as Yucatán, Oaxaca, and Jalisco using dance and music.
If students get inspired after they see the performance, there is a program which is based in Queens. It mainly focuses on the dance and music traditions of Mexico, incorporating lessons in history and basics in dance and music. It emphasizes community and dance as part of a healthy and active lifestyle which can be both fun and beneficial to students who find it difficult to make time for exercise during the school year. It operates year round and serves a largely Mexican immigrant community. Dance classes are separated by age starting at age 5 and up and include advanced training. They also have an adult beginner class which is open and accessible.
The stories are thought up of and created by Co-Founders Alberto Lopez Herrera, former Artistic Director, and Juan Castaño, Executive Director, and are told through the artistic vision of Artistic Director Grisel Pren Monje.
CSI is the home to over a quarter of students identifying as Hispanic or Latino. For many, Calpulli’s performance is more than a show it will be a representation and a showing to their cultural roots. For others, it can be an invitation to learn, appreciate, and connect with Mexican traditions. Events like this not only provide representation but also create a sense of belonging and pride for Hispanic and Latino students.
At the Cinco de Mayo performance there will be dance routines, elaborate costumes, and also viewers will hear insight into the historical and cultural significance behind each performance. The event is designed as a narrative journey that is as educational as it is entertaining to share in their culture.
Admission to the Cinco de Mayo Assembly is free, making it accessible to students, faculty, and the Staten Island community. The event is part of the college’s ongoing commitment to celebrating diversity and cultural exchange. The performance will be from 3:30-4:30. This allows students to not just be educated about other cultures and traditions but to participate in something with their community while being on a budget.
“The performance being on campus makes it way easier for students to attend.” Said Annaliese Delgado a student at CSI. “A lot of students like me are always waiting around on campus in between classes this gives us something interesting to do instead of just sitting around doing nothing.”
Through Calpulli’s artistry the Cinco de Mayo Assembly at CSI will not only entertain but also educate and inspire people watching strengthening the bonds within the college and the broader Staten Island community for whoever comes to view. It is an invitation to learn, appreciate, and connect with the richness of Mexican culture.
“Making experiences accessible to college students is a good way to get people engaged,” said Olivia Demauro, a student at CSI. “It will also keep them interested in what is going on.”
