The Ballet Folklorico of Pioneer Valley High School recently brought “Day of the Dead” to more than 5,000 people in San Luis Obispo.
The performance, which was dedicated to the Hospice of SLO, involved dances from the regions of Jalisco, Veracruz, Chihuahua, Sinaloa and Yucatan. More than a dozen Panther dancers participated in the Mission Plaza event.
“The day gives us a chance to reflect on the close connection between life and death, the love of our ancestors, and show support for those who are currently in hospice care,’’ said teacher Roxana Maldonado. “Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), means living alongside death as a reality and is not something to be feared. In Mexican culture, we have learned to accept it within our lives on this special day.’’
The students, who wore colorful costumes and face paint, believe it’s important to keep their culture and heritage alive and share it with others.
Senior Laura Flores enjoys “Eating their favorite foods and remembering them as they were before passing away.’’ Senior Andrea Frausto agreed, adding “It’s also important to remember family members who had a big impact on my life because it’s giving back to them.’’
