There’s no need for words between two hearts in love, it has been said, but what about 14 dancers, a core of musicians, and countless colorful costumes?
Calpulli Mexican Dance Company presents Boda Mexicana at the LaGuardia Performing Arts Center on Sunday, March 23, at 2 pm.
Through songs, dances, customs, rituals, and ceremonies, this performance tells the story of two lovers who travel through time from the Mayan pyramids to Sinaloa on the Pacific Coast, while engaging in customs of courtship. They meet the in-laws. They get engaged. They enjoy a feast in their honor.
And in true telenovela style, they’re hounded by an enchantress who wants to destroy their love.
Admission is $35, and the show is set for the Long Island City school’s Mainstage Theater, which has space for 740 guests on a single level and 12 guests in a wheelchair section.
“We are so delighted to be growing our partnership with LaGuardia Performing Arts Center,” stated Calpulli Executive Director Juan Castaño. (This is their third collaboration over the last three years.)
Founded in 2003, Calpulli celebrates and promotes Mexican and Mexican-American culture. (“Calpulli” means “family” and/or “big house” in the Aztec language Nahuatl.) The company, which won a National Endowment for the Arts award in 2015, also offers shows that celebrate Christmas, Dia de los Muertos, the Monarch Butterfly, and other aspects of Mexican culture.
LaGuardia’s main entrance is at 31-10 Thomson Ave., but officials suggest LPAC patrons use the entrance near Van Dam Street and 47th Avenue. A small parking lot is on the campus, but public transportation is suggested. The 7 train to 33 St/Rawson St is the closest station. The G train to Court Sq is also nearby.
Editor’s note: For students, teachers, and administrators, Calpulli and LPAC will offer An Educational Journey to Boda Mexicana on March 24 at 10:30 am. This event mixes excerpts from the production with narration, study guides, and opportunities to engage with troupe members. Tickets cost $10, but Title 1 schools pay $8 each. For more information, contact Christy Fischer at [email protected].
Images: Calpulli