Calpulli Mexican Dance Company

Calpulli Mexican Dance Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to celebrating and preserving Mexican and Mexican-American cultural heritage through dance and music. Founded in 2003 by Alberto Lopez, Myrta Duran, Daniel Jaquez, and Juan Castaño, the company is headquartered in New York City.

History and Mission

The name "Calpulli" originates from the Nahuatl language, meaning "family" and "big house," reflecting the company's aim to unite people through cultural expression. Calpulli's mission is to enrich the lives of communities by showcasing the diversity of Mexican and Mexican-American culture through professional performances, arts-in-education programs, and community engagement.

Programs and Performances

Calpulli's repertoire includes traditional ballet folklorico and mariachi music, as well as contemporary and fusion works that highlight Mexican cultural diversity. The company has toured nationally and internationally, performing at prestigious venues such as Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, Wortham Center in Houston, and Carnegie Hall. In addition to its touring company, Calpulli offers community-based programs, including arts-in-education services, low-cost dance classes for children and adults, and music lessons.

Community Engagement

The Calpulli Community program provides accessible arts education to Mexican immigrant families across New York City and the tri-state area. The program offers dance classes, music lessons, and open rehearsals, serving nearly 200 individuals every week. Initially fee-based, the program transitioned to a donation-based model to accommodate financial constraints within the community.

Awards and Recognition

Calpulli has received numerous awards for its contributions to the community, including the Don Quixote Award from Brooklyn College, the Borimex Award from Teatro SEA, and four Union Square Awards for excellence in youth programming. In 2015, the company received its first grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. Calpulli's performances have been positively reviewed by media outlets such as the Houston Chronicle, New York Times, and NY Examiner.

Structure and Finances

Calpulli operates as an arts and culture nonprofit, with contributions and program services being its primary sources of revenue. As of the last available data, the company relies significantly on donations for its operational support. Its financial operations are managed under the oversight of its leadership team, which includes key figures like Alberto Lopez and Juan Castaño. The organization emphasizes transparency and accountability in its financial reporting through annual Form 990 filings.