Posted March 30, 2026
The North Texas Ballet Folklórico Contest Expands, Welcomes Returning and New Students from Across Texas
On March 2 and 3, students from across the state of Texas competed at the fifth annual North Texas Ballet Folklórico Contest at the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre. The two-day event showcased the hard work and dedication of some of the state’s most talented varsity and junior varsity level dance students. The competition highlights artistry, sportsmanship, and cultural awareness and pride, attracting both seasoned and new participants to celebrate the art form every year.
Returning contestants from Sunset High School (Dallas ISD) found themselves leaning on their dance teacher, Mr. Fernando Ibarra-Rocha, for motivation and encouraging words. Varsity and junior varsity routines included classics like La Azucena Bella, Jarabe Loco, and El Maracumbre.
Just last year, Ibarra-Rocha succeeded in separating folklórico into its own area of study at Sunset High School.
“Ballet folklórico creates such a sense of community,” Ibarra-Rocha said. “To me, this performance highlights the students’ pride in themselves and their lineage.”
Alice Moore Alexander Elementary (Denton ISD) competed for the second time, performing a ballet folklórico classic, Son de la Negra, often referred to as the second national anthem of Mexico.
First-time contestants from Caney Creek High School (Conroe ISD, outside of the Houston area) said they were excited to be invited and compete this year.
Dance student Betzabel Torres said the competition was a very different environment than what she and her teammates are used to where they are from–it connected them to other dance students who are passionate about ballet folklórico.
“We love that they get to experience different competitions and connect to their culture,” said Daniela Archila Conde, dance educator for Conroe ISD.