Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico

- 525 16th St #100, Moline, IL 61265

In the heart of the Quad Cities, there is a special place where music, color, and tradition come to life through the art of dance. The Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico is much more than just a dance group; it is a long-standing non-profit organization that has been enriching the community since 1984. This article is written for residents of Illinois, to help you learn about this incredible local point of interest. It's a place that not only provides a fun and engaging activity for children but also serves as a vital keeper of cultural heritage, connecting generations and bringing people together.

Founded by Arnulfo Camarillo with the help of his wife, Beatriz, the organization was born from a desire to keep Mexican culture and its rich traditions alive. Starting with a small group of around 15 children for a Mother's Day performance, it quickly grew into a permanent fixture in the community due to popular demand. Today, the Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico boasts a large group of students, ranging in age from 4 to 18, and continues to be led by dedicated volunteer instructors. Their mission is to teach the community about Mexican culture through dance, and they achieve this by performing a variety of traditional dances from different Mexican states.

The organization is praised by customers and community members alike for its positive impact. One review highlights the group as a "non-profit kids folkloric dance group" with a "great group of kids, parents and instructors." This sense of community and family is a core part of what makes the group so special. The fact that "lessons are always offered free of charge" is a testament to their commitment to accessibility and their non-profit mission. It ensures that any child with an interest can participate, regardless of their family's financial situation.

The home of the Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico is located at 525 16th St #100, Moline, IL 61265, USA. This location makes it a central and convenient place for families throughout the Quad Cities region, including both Illinois and Iowa. As a point of interest, its physical address is a central hub for practice and community engagement.

A notable feature of the location is its accessibility. The provided information indicates a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which demonstrates the organization's commitment to being an inclusive space for all members of the community. This accessibility ensures that anyone interested in participating or attending a show can do so comfortably. The studio provides a consistent home for the dancers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and giving them a space to practice, store their elaborate costumes, and build friendships.

As a non-profit organization focused on cultural preservation, the Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico offers a range of services and programs that extend beyond simple dance lessons.

• Free Dance Lessons: One of the most significant services is the provision of free dance lessons. This is a crucial element of their mission to make Mexican culture accessible to everyone. The lessons are offered to children from ages 4 to 18, and practice sessions are held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
• Cultural Education: The organization is founded on the principle of teaching Mexican culture through dance. This means the service includes not just learning choreography but also understanding the history, significance, and regional variations of each dance. This educational component adds a deeper layer of meaning to the practice.
• Performance Opportunities: Students get to perform in a variety of events, including local fiestas, art festivals, school functions, and their own well-regarded shows, such as their annual Summer Showcase. These performances provide a platform for the students to share their hard work with the community and gain confidence.
• Mentorship Program: The organization also has a mentorship program called "Pasos con Amigos" (Steps with Friends), which is designed to bridge the gap between their small and older student groups. This program offers helpful learning opportunities for younger students while building leadership skills in the older ones.

The Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico has several key highlights that make it an invaluable part of the local landscape.

• Non-Profit Status and Community Focus: The fact that it is a non-profit organization is a major highlight. This allows them to focus on their mission of cultural education and community service, with all efforts directed toward the students and performances. This is supported by their long history and reliance on dedicated volunteers and a board of directors.
• Rich History: Founded in 1984, the organization has a deep history in the Quad Cities. It has been a constant presence for decades, with a legacy that includes performances all over the Midwest and a commitment to keeping cultural traditions alive for future generations.
• Family-Friendly and Good for Kids: It is officially noted as being "good for kids," and customer reviews back this up, highlighting the "great group of kids, parents and instructors." This nurturing environment fosters not just dance skills but also friendships and a sense of belonging. The group has grown to over 100 dancers, a testament to its positive reputation.
• Diverse and Inclusive: While focused on Mexican culture, the organization welcomes students from all ethnic backgrounds. This inclusivity enriches the group and helps spread cultural awareness to a broader audience.
• High-Quality Performances: Customers consistently praise the quality of their shows. They "put on a great show" that is full of color, music, and the vibrant energy of the students.

For more information on how to join, performance schedules, or general inquiries, you can reach out to the Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico.

• Address: 525 16th St #100, Moline, IL 61265, USA
• Phone: (309) 948-4443 or +1 309-948-4443

Choosing to support or join the Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico is a decision to invest in the community and its cultural fabric. For parents in Illinois looking for a meaningful and engaging activity for their children, this organization offers an exceptional opportunity. Unlike commercial dance studios, the Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico provides free lessons, removing the financial barrier that can often prevent children from exploring their passions. The focus is on cultural education and personal development rather than profit.

The organization’s long-standing history, coupled with the positive reviews from those involved, speaks to its stability and positive influence. Students not only learn traditional dances from various Mexican states but also become part of a supportive community of peers, parents, and instructors. The opportunity to perform in front of an audience builds confidence and allows the students to be proud ambassadors of a rich cultural heritage. From a community perspective, this organization provides a vital service by keeping traditions alive and sharing them with a wider public through captivating performances. It’s a place where children can grow, learn, and make lasting memories while contributing to the cultural richness of the Quad Cities. For these reasons, the Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico is not just a dance group—it's a community landmark and a true asset to Illinois.

Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico

525 16th St #100, Moline, IL 61265, USA