Los Lupenos de San Jose

For those in California seeking to connect deeply with the vibrant and rich cultural tapestry of Mexico through its traditional dance forms, Los Lupeños de San José stands as an iconic and enduring institution. Founded in 1969 by Susan Cashion and Ramón Morones, Los Lupeños is recognized as one of the earliest Mexican folk dance companies in California, and indeed, the first incorporated Mexican folk dance group in 1973. For over five decades, this organization has been a beacon of artistry, history, traditions, innovation, and endurance, dedicated to preserving, presenting, and educating the public about Mexican folk culture through dance.

As a program of the Cashion Cultural Legacy since 2014, Los Lupeños de San José encompasses three core dance programs: the professional Los Lupeños Dance Company, the performing youth ensemble Los Lupeños Juvenil, and the widely accessible Los Lupeños Academy. This multi-tiered structure ensures that individuals of all ages and skill levels can engage with Mexican folklórico, from toddlers taking their first rhythmic steps to seasoned performers gracing international stages. The passion of the dancers, directors, and instructors is palpable, making it a positive and enriching force within the California dance community.

Los Lupeños' mission extends beyond mere performance; it's about connecting the steps to music, language, customs, culture, and history, fostering a profound sense of cultural pride and identity among its students. They are accustomed to exploring new methods of transmitting their love of Mexican dance, often collaborating with other esteemed organizations to broaden artistic perspectives and reach wider audiences. For locals, Los Lupeños de San José is not just a dance school; it's a living legacy that offers a dynamic and authentic immersion into Mexican heritage.

Los Lupeños de San José is prominently located at 1700 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA 95116, USA. This address places the organization within the Mexican Heritage Plaza, a significant cultural landmark in San Jose. Being situated at such a central and culturally relevant location greatly enhances its accessibility and visibility within the community, making it a focal point for Mexican cultural arts in the Bay Area.

The Mexican Heritage Plaza offers ample parking and is easily reachable from various parts of San Jose and surrounding cities like Santa Clara, Milpitas, and Cupertino. Its location on Alum Rock Avenue, a major thoroughfare, ensures convenient access by both private vehicle and public transportation. This central and well-known location makes it an ideal and practical destination for families and individuals throughout the California region seeking to participate in or experience Mexican folk dance.

Services Offered (through Los Lupeños Dance Company, Los Lupeños Juvenil, and Los Lupeños Academy):

• Public Folklórico dance classes for all ages and levels (toddlers, children, youth, and adults).
• "Baila y Canta" classes for toddlers (0-4 years) with parents/caregivers, focusing on motor skills and musical rhythms.
• "Rondas y Juegos" for children (4-5 years), introducing basic folk dance forms.
• Children's Folklórico classes (Levels I, II, III for ages 6-11), building foundational skills and choreography.
• Youth/Adult Folklórico classes (Introductory, Intermediate, Advanced levels for ages 15+).
• Los Lupeños Juvenil: A performing youth ensemble (10-15 years old) that trains at an elevated, pre-professional level.
• Los Lupeños Dance Company: The professional adult performing company, renowned for its artistry and extensive repertoire.
• Performance opportunities at annual concerts (e.g., "Tocando Tierra," "Antaño"), community festivals (e.g., FOLKLOREADA), and local events (e.g., Pumpkins in the Park, Happy Birthday San José).
• Curriculum that connects dance steps to music, language, customs, culture, and history.
• Tuition assistance to ensure accessibility for economically challenged families.
• Artist Exchange programs, sponsoring dancers and choreographers between California and Mexico for research and artistic development.
• Library & Publications Project, collecting and curating materials on Mexican folk dance.

Features / Highlights:

• Founded in 1969, making it one of the earliest and longest-running Mexican folk dance companies in California.
• A program of the non-profit Cashion Cultural Legacy, ensuring a strong commitment to cultural preservation and education.
• Known for its artistry, historical accuracy, traditional integrity, and innovative presentations.
• Led by Artistic Director and Choreographer Samuel Cortez, an award-winning researcher and cultural promoter.
• Offers a comprehensive educational component through Los Lupeños Academy, providing accessible classes for all ages and levels.
• Features two performing companies: the professional adult company and Los Lupeños Juvenil (youth ensemble).
• Regularly performs at prestigious venues and events both locally and internationally (including past performances for Pope John Paul II and tours in England/Ireland).
• Actively collaborates with other esteemed arts organizations to broaden artistic reach and impact.
• Emphasizes the cultural and historical context of each dance, deepening students' understanding and appreciation.
• Committed to inclusivity, supporting bilateral artistic exchange between California and Mexico.
• Houses an extensive collection of largely handmade traditional costumes and props, reflecting its rich history.

Contact Information:

Address: 1700 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA 95116, USA

Phone: While a direct phone number for the specific dance company was not readily available through public domain searches, Los Lupeños is part of the Cashion Cultural Legacy, whose contact information may be found on their official website (cashionculturallegacy.org or loslupenos.org). For performance requests or class inquiries, it is recommended to visit their official website or use their online contact forms.

In conclusion, Los Lupeños de San José is a cornerstone of Mexican cultural preservation and artistic excellence in California. For locals in San Jose and the broader Bay Area, this organization offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with Mexican folk dance at every level, from introductory classes for toddlers to professional-level performances. Its deep historical roots, commitment to authentic cultural education, and vibrant community-focused programs make it an invaluable resource.

Whether you are a parent seeking to instill cultural pride in your children, an adult looking to connect with your heritage, or simply a dance enthusiast eager to experience the beauty of Mexican folklórico, Los Lupeños de San José provides a welcoming and enriching environment. Its ongoing efforts in performance, education, and artistic exchange ensure that the traditions of Mexican dance continue to thrive and inspire new generations, solidifying its place as a cherished cultural gem in California.

Los Lupenos de San Jose

1700 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA 95116, USA