BALLET FOLKLORICO WILL BE PRESENTED IN MARIPOSA ON SEPT. 25. Members of the community can participate in one of the finest of all American dreams: a beautiful setting where cultures celebrate their own traditions while honoring and applauding others. As the evening cools and the breeze flows gently through the pines, Marimba Lucero and Ballet Folklorico Alta California will heat up the atmosphere with traditional Mexican Folk Dance and lively Marimba music. This free event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 25, at the Mariposa County Park Amphitheatre, located in Mariposa County Park.

Ballet Folklorico Alta California, a colorful gala, expertly executed by the Mexican Folk Dance Company founded by Rosa Amelia Gonzalez, Ignacio Napoles, Cecilia Rios, Alfredo Robles will present the high energy of its dancers, colorful costumes and unique dance style that leaves their audiences energized with excitement. With a repertoire containing traditional, authentic dance styles as well as modern interpretation of present day Mexican dance, Ballet Folklorico dancers are ambassadors to a colorful and exciting cultural heritage.

Marimba Lucero has been performing a variety of music since 1993, from the traditional songs of old Mexico. This group is directed and originated by Stanley A. Lucero on lead guitar and lead vocals. He is truly the "father" of the group. Members include Nora Guillen (his daughter) on marimba/lead vocals and Pedro Lucero (son) on bass/guitar.

Lucero said, “These are the songs our grandparents learned as children here in the Southwest United States.” The songs and games in the Lucerito's Music collection represent music from New Mexico and California gathered since 1966 from relatives, friends, neighbors, musicians, teachers and old music books. Most of the songs are over 100 years old and are currently being sung by Spanish speaking children throughout the Spanish speaking world.

Those planning to attend should bring a cushion or blanket for park seating. For more information call the Mariposa County Arts Council at 966-3155, e-mail info@artsmariposa. org, or visit www.arts-mariposa.org.

The Arts Council is funded in part by Mariposa County, the California Arts Council a State agency and the National Endowment for the Arts, a Federal Agency.