Yúmare Mexican Folkloric Dancers Inc.

- 228 SW 25th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73109

For decades, Yúmare Mexican Folkloric Dancers Inc. has served as a vibrant cultural beacon in the heart of Oklahoma City. More than just a dance school, Yúmare is a non-profit organization established with the powerful mission of promoting the traditional and regional dances of Mexico by emphasizing the education of its rich history, traditions, art, music, and culture. Founded in 1989 by Maestro Manuel Garcia, the organization is now skillfully led by Executive Director and Dance Instructor, Shana Madrid-Smith, who has dedicated over 30 years to the art of Folklorico.

For Oklahomans, particularly those interested in connecting with their heritage or simply seeking a unique, cultural art form, Yúmare offers an enriching and deeply meaningful experience. Students don't just learn steps; they learn the meaning behind each dance, the history of the region it represents, and the colorful storytelling embedded within the movement. This focus on cultural education is a cornerstone of the Yúmare experience, as instructor Shana Madrid-Smith believes that through education, greater tolerance and understanding are achieved.

The community aspect is highly valued, creating a supportive environment that is often described by customers as a beautiful and confidence-boosting experience. Parents note the value not just in their children’s artistic growth but in the bonding time and sense of pride they gain from performing and sharing their culture with the wider Oklahoma community.

Yúmare Mexican Folkloric Dancers Inc. is centrally located in the Historic Capitol Hill district of Oklahoma City, an area renowned for its cultural vibrancy and community engagement. Its location makes it accessible for families across the greater OKC metro area.

• Address: 228 SW 25th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73109, USA

The facility is situated to serve the community effectively and provides crucial accommodations for accessibility:

• A Wheelchair accessible parking lot is available, ensuring convenient access for students, parents, and visitors with mobility needs.
• The environment is explicitly noted as being Good for kids, underscoring the organization's commitment to providing a safe, positive, and nurturing space for children of all ages to learn.
• The studio space at 228 SW 25th St is a known cultural hub in OKC, often associated with community events like the Fiestas De Las Américas, placing the dancers at the heart of the city's celebration of Hispanic Heritage.

As a specialized Dance School, Yúmare offers focused instruction on the beautiful and diverse art of Mexican Folkloric dance. Their commitment to passing down traditions is evident in their class structure.

• Mexican Folkloric Dancers Classes: These core offerings provide in-depth training on the traditional and regional dances of Mexico, which includes learning the distinctive footwork (zapateado) and theatrical choreographies that represent various states and their unique folklore.
• Folkloric Dancers Training: Focused instruction on the technique, discipline, and performance required for this specific dance style, including the use of colorful, authentic costumes and specialized footwear for rhythmic impact.
• Cultural and Historical Education: A central component of the classes, where students learn the history, music, and cultural significance behind each dance routine, making the experience deeply educational and meaningful.
• Partner Choreography: Instruction on dances that involve coordinated movement between partners, which is integral to many regional Mexican folk dances.
• Structured Classes by Age/Grade: The organization provides a clear schedule catering to different age groups to ensure appropriate pacing and learning environments:
  • Pre-K to 3rd Grade: Classes meet on Monday evenings from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
  • 4th Grade to Adults: Classes meet on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
• Public Performances: Students gain invaluable experience by participating in numerous performances throughout Oklahoma City, including cultural events like Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations at the Metropolitan Library System, and potentially other festivals.

The key features of Yúmare Mexican Folkloric Dancers Inc. revolve around their legacy, leadership, and their unique role as a cultural preservation organization in Oklahoma.

• Deep Cultural Connection: The primary highlight is the organization’s dedication to preserving Mexican culture. It's a space where students, especially youth, can strengthen their connection to their heritage and roots, preventing traditions from being forgotten.
• Experienced and Passionate Leadership: Executive Director Shana Madrid-Smith brings over 30 years of experience, having been a principal dancer and committed teacher. Her mission to educate students and the community on the diversities of Mexico ensures a high level of expertise and cultural authenticity.
• Non-Profit Status: As a non-profit organization, Yúmare is community-focused, channeling efforts and resources into its mission of education and cultural promotion, often performing at public events to share the art with the broader Oklahoma population.
• Confidence and Character Building: Customer reviews consistently highlight the program’s positive impact on students’ personal development, noting significant increases in confidence, discipline, and performance skills.
• Family Bonding Opportunity: The organized structure allows for multi-generational involvement, with classes catering from young children to adults, fostering a unique family bonding experience as noted by local participants.
• Community Engagement: Yúmare actively participates in Oklahoma City's major cultural events, giving dancers opportunities to perform on stage, showcase their hard work, and educate thousands of residents about Mexican heritage.

Oklahomans interested in registering for classes, booking a performance, or learning more about the organization can use the following contact details:

• Address: 228 SW 25th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73109, USA
• Phone: (405) 410-4723
• Email for Booking/Inquiries: danzayumare@gmail.com (as publicly listed for booking information)

Yúmare Mexican Folkloric Dancers Inc. is worth choosing because it provides an invaluable cultural and artistic education that goes far beyond simple exercise. For local Oklahomans, it offers a dynamic way to embrace and showcase the beautiful, diverse traditions of Mexico right here in the heartland. This non-profit is a powerful engine for building confidence, instilling discipline, and creating lasting family and community bonds, making it a unique and vital institution in Oklahoma City's cultural landscape. By joining Yúmare, you are not just enrolling in a dance class; you are supporting a legacy and participating in the preservation of rich cultural history, all while gaining a meaningful skill and a supportive network that is "wonderful watching her grow."

Yúmare Mexican Folkloric Dancers Inc.

228 SW 25th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73109, USA