Recommended for Grades 5-12.
¡Viva México! Take your class on a spellbinding journey through the effervescent soul of Mexico, brought to life on stage in a student-centered performance by Ballet Folklórico de México.
During this hour-long matinee, students will learn about Mexico’s rich history and culture through breathtaking dance, vibrant live mariachi music — including distinctive orchestra, brass and stringed instruments — and dazzling traditional costumes that celebrate Mexican identity. The performing arts vividly combine with global/cultural studies and history in this fun, interactive program by the premier folkloric dance ensemble in Mexico and around the globe.
From the mysticism of pre-Colombian rituals to the passion of contemporary folk traditions, this extraordinary event on Northrop’s historic stage at the flagship University of Minnesota campus will transport your students — helping them understand a new culture, or more deeply embrace their own, through the arts!
Top image: Ballet Folklórico de México. Photo courtesy of the artist.
Tickets & To Help You Decide
Important Ticket Info
- Cost: Free for all students and chaperones!
- Ticket reservation deadline: Thursday, Feb. 25, 2027
- To reserve your free tickets, of any quantity, please fill out the ticket request form.
- Note: The University of Minnesota Safety of Minors adult-to-student ratio applies to all Northrop Student Matinees, so please communicate your ticket totals, including both the number of student tickets and the number of teacher/chaperone tickets requested. Learn more about our Student Matinee policies.
Questions? If you have general student matinee questions, please refer to our Student Matinee FAQ. Direct any additional questions regarding your ticket reservation to matinees@umn.edu.
You might enjoy this performance if you loved:
Educational Resources & More
Resources for Educators
Northrop provides educational resources connected to Minnesota state standards for all of our student matinees.
Resources will be available closer to the performance date. Find program information, questions to ask your students, and activities.
Quotes/Reviews
“Ballet Folklórico de México Is a Vivid and Entrancing Look at Mexican History” — Third Coast Review
“The [dancers and musicians] exude a regalness that is striking … a joy that is contagious.” — LA Dance Chronicle
Related Links
Know Before You Go
General Information
- Seating: Reservations Required. Ticket reservations are at capacity. Waitlist registration is available on the waitlist registration form.
- Performance Begins: 10:30 a.m.
- Run Time: Approximately 60 minutes, including a Q&A
- Education Contacts: Check your email for more details closer to the date.
If you need assistance, please call 612-624-2345, email umntix@umn.edu.
Sensory Friendly Lounge
A Sensory Friendly Lounge equipped with sensory supports and staffed by trained volunteers will be available to all guests who are seeking a safe and soothing atmosphere during this and other select performances. Learn more on the Accessibility Services page.
Related Event
Learn More About Northrop's K-12 Programs
Northrop proudly engages students in meaningful experiences that expand their worldview and provide the hope and joy the arts offer through its K-12 matinee program.
Join the Northrop K-12 Matinee Email List
Acknowledgments
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
Thanks to the leadership and vision of Northrop's Advisory Board, Northrop's dance and music Student Matinees will be free for students and chaperones to attend in the 2026-27 school year.
