Join us for a spectacular celebration of culture, tradition, and dance as Ballet Nepantla returns to San Antonio with their breathtaking Día de los Muertos-themed show, “Mística.” This extraordinary production will take place across four performances from October 1-4, including a FREE public show on Tuesday, October 1 at 6 PM at the Somerset High School Performing Arts Center (S. Loop 1604, Somerset, Texas 78069). This special event is made possible in part by CULTIVAR, Texas A&M University, and Somerset ISD.
Founded by South Texas native Andrea Guajardo and Martín Rodríguez of Guadalajara, Ballet Nepantla masterfully blends traditional ballet folklórico with contemporary dance and ballet, creating a mesmerizing fusion of movement that tells the stories unique to the Mexican and Mexican American experience. “Mística” is a fan favorite, especially around Día de los Muertos, as it honors our ancestors through elegant, vibrant choreography and dazzling visuals that captivate audiences of all ages.
Originally created during the pandemic, “Mística” was inspired by the tragic loss of many immigrants from a small village in Puebla, Mexico, who resided in Brooklyn, New York. This deeply emotional experience moved Andrea and Martín to create a show that pays tribute to lives lost and celebrates the journey to the afterlife. One of the many magical highlights of the performance is the use of black light effects that bring the spirits of the departed to life, offering a truly otherworldly experience. A personal favorite of mine is the enchanting dance, “Angelitos,” which portrays cherubic souls who find peace and joy in the afterlife, free from worry and care.
Andrea and Martín bring their own unique cultural backgrounds and artistic journeys to Ballet Nepantla. Andrea, a South Texas native, grew up in Edinburg, Texas, where her family owned a dance studio. At 17, she moved to New York City to pursue her dreams, studying at the Ailey School of Dance and Fordham University, eventually earning a BFA in dance. She went on to perform with the renowned company MOMIX under the direction of Moses Pendleton. Martín, born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, began his journey in folklórico at age 9, eventually becoming a principal dancer and choreographer for Grandeza Mexicana Folk Ballet Company in Los Angeles before co-founding Ballet Nepantla in New York in 2017.
Ballet Nepantla Dancers:
Andrea Guajardo – Edinburg, TX
Lindsay Jorgensen – Lawrenceville, NJ
Maria Gracia Perez – Lima, Peru
Sumire Ishige – Greensboro, NC
Belleza Mitchell – San Antonio, TX
Veronica Santana – West Covina, CA
Argelia Arreola – Mexico City, Mexico
Aoi Ohno – Kanazawa, Japan
Guadalupe Garza – Edinburg, TX
Erick Perales – Pharr, TX
Paulo Gutierrez – Ambato, Ecuador
Anthony Bocconi – Brooklyn, NY
William Valles – Barrington, RI
Having had the pleasure of working with Ballet Nepantla for the past five years, I can confidently say their work is nothing short of brilliant. Their performances are a stunning blend of grace, athleticism, and cultural pride, showcasing the very best of both Mexican and U.S. dance traditions. Every detail—from choreography to costume design and lighting—is executed with precision and care, leaving audiences inspired and deeply moved.
If you’re in or near San Antonio, don’t miss this chance to witness the magic of “Mística” firsthand! Bring your friends and family to this incredible free performance. RSVP at cynthia@munozpublicrelations.com or call 210-860-9633 to reserve your space. Special thanks to CULTIVAR, Texas A&M, Somerset ISD, and Harlandale ISD for making these performances possible.
I look forward to seeing you there for this unforgettable cultural experience!
There’s lots coming up in the month of October. In addition to Ballet Nepantla shows in San Antonio and San Marcos October 1-5, Nayelli Peña and UTSA’s Mariachi Los Paisanos will perform at the “Cave Without a Name” on October 12 followed by the 30th Annual Mariachi Extravaganza December 5-7. So many great things happening this fall. Can’t wait to see everyone!
