Trained by the masters on the Island, we are one of the few on the mainland with the expertise to teach and perform the full cross-section of Puerto Rican folklore. Since 1997, we annually produce unfailing, artistically and financially successful programming, which includes our largest annual production "Celebrando" with folklore masters from Puerto Rico. We have had stable and healthy growth since our inception, and today offer over 10 distinct performing arts and cultural education programs in traditional dance, music, history and culture that are enjoyed by 60-70 students and professionals each week. Our programs attract Hispanics and non-Hispanics alike who are experiencing our culture for the first time, as well as Puerto Ricans interested in learning more about or sharing our culture with others. Centrally located, we are proud to serve Central Texas cities containing 81% of the Puerto Rican population living in Texas (US Census data). This includes participants from nearby cities San Antonio to Killeen (1-2hrs), who come to Austin each week to enjoy our ongoing programs. Our full-length productions are routinely attracting a growing audience from distant cities, Dallas, Houston and beyond (3-4hrs), as people come to see one of the few companies on the mainland who can perform the full spectrum of Puerto Rican folklore, live music and dance, at a professional level.
Our adult traditional dance program and performing company have been ongoing since 1997. In 2001 we established the first Puerto Rican cultural center in Austin and since then, have added youth traditional dance classes (children-teens), a youth choir (songs in spanish), a preschool class on traditional songs, games, and early concepts in rhythm and movement, two levels of percussion (youth and adult/advance), music ensembles for students and professionals, and Workshops in Puerto Rican Studies and Sports focused on themes beyond performing arts. Our performing company, which debuted with three dancers in 1998 is now on par with the top-tier folkloric companies on the island. We are a 24-member professional-level company of dancers and musicians who can perform a full-length production of Puerto Rico's traditional dances all to live music! In Fall 2006, we took our Cultural Center to the next evolution and created a small, but proud permanent location that is home to our educational programs, small performances, and cultural events for our community. It is the physical presence of what we have grown to be, a unique resource in the Southwest US!
Since 1997 we have offered educational resources to 2000 world-wide visitors per week who come to our website seeking information on Puerto Rican folklore. Our disciplined, family atmosphere is a nurturing environment that is creating a sense of community and attracting youth and adults seeking a sense of cultural pride and positive role models. Our volunteer-run corporation and cultural center is providing opportunities to develop real-world skills in teaching, business, and computer-based business applications. Our educational programs are providing leadership opportunities to teens. Young families are choosing Austin as home to keep their children near our hard-to-find cultural arts programs. We encourage "family unity" by allowing parents to stay and watch class, and support teens' challenges with activities and interations that inspire positive direction, nurture self-esteem, and build self-confidence.
The presence of our cultural center dedicated to this unique slice
of Hispanic culture brings a spotlight to Central Texas and to Austin.
Music and dance is a very important part of our culture which is why
we are proud be named the Ambassadors of Puerto Rico in
Austin. We are contributing to cultural diversity by sharing
the joy and liveliness of the Puerto Rican people, and the color
and richness of our beautiful heritage.