Today we are showing a conversation with Maestro Jesus Cortez. He is the founder and director of the school of Dance “Cuicacali” in San Francisco, California. He started learning dance in his original hometown in Mexico under his Uncle Juan Natoli. For many years he expanded his knowledge and experience in renowned national and international schools of modern and folkloric dance. He is a choreographer a teacher and an avid defender of folk arts and traditions. The word CUICACALLI means the “House of Culture” in Maya. Similar to the idea of Ateneo or Atenea in our shows. Jesus used to learn to dance as a child in his uncle’s academy also called Cuicacali. It was a house of a culture where children and adults alike would learn and work together to preserve cultural values through dance and music. Cuicacali Mariachi School Today, as expressed by its founders, “Cuicacali values its mission to serve the diverse community of San Francisco with dedication towards excellent instruction, performances and community programs, for intergenerational students, artists and audiences of all backgrounds and continues to build communities through dance – expanding, exploring and celebrating the cultural traditions of the Americas.” Cuicacali Dance School The school [...]