Using traditional Mesoamerican instruments and costumes, Balamcóatl translates ancient poems about nature and conserving the environment into enchanting song and dance. Students will learn about the four elements of the rainforest—water, wind, fire and air—and witness animals such as the jaguar, deer and quetzal, a legendary bird. Features Youth in Arts Mentor Artists Ernesto Olmos, Miguel Martinez and Nydia Gonzalez.

Balamcóatl creates unique music and dance performances with original pre-Hispanic instruments and hand-made replicas.  Tapestries, traditional dress and jewelry help create a magical, authentic ambience. Balam, meaning jaguar in Maya, and Coatl, meaning serpent in Nahuatl, unite to weave Mesoamerican themes into a tapestry of colorful legends.

Special pre-performance workshop for teachers Saturday, April 4!  Contact Youth in Arts for more information.