**”Choreographies as Spaces to Negotiate Reality, Protest, or Resist”: Minerva Tapia**
**Tijuana’s Contemporary Dance Group Returns to Mexico City**
The esteemed Tijuana-based contemporary dance company, Grupo de Danza Minerva Tapia, is scheduled to perform at the Teatro de la Danza “Guillermina Bravo” in the Centro Cultural del Bosque, Mexico City, from August 22 to 25. This event is part of the “Contemporary Dance Season from the North,” organized by the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes (INBA).
Founded in 1995 by Minerva Tapia, the company has a remarkable 29-year history and has performed in various countries including Argentina, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, Spain, and extensively in the United States. Their notable performances have graced the stages of San Diego, Los Angeles, Irvine, and New York’s Joyce SoHo. This marks their first return to Mexico City in nearly three decades.
Minerva Tapia recalls, “Our first performance was at the Centro Nacional de las Artes in Mexico City back in 1995. Returning here holds a special significance.” Currently, the troupe features Alejandra RamÃrez, Adrián Villeda, Salma RÃos, and Dayra Meraz, who will showcase three key pieces: “Aura,” “Cuerpitos Fronterizos,” and “Padres.”
**Detailed Insights into the Featured Performances**
– **Aura (2013)**: This piece, inspired by Carlos Fuentes’ novel, explores the duality of the protagonist Consuelo-Aura, connected to the cultural duality between Tijuana and San Diego.
– **Cuerpitos Fronterizos (2009)**: This choreography examines four contemporary experiences of the human body as lived on the Tijuana-San Diego border: the body as transport, the body under aesthetic transformations, the body as a form, and the mistreated body.
– **Padres (2009)**: Part of the “Juanito/Saint of the Migrants” choreography, this piece delves into the poignant story of the parents of Olga Camacho, a young girl whose tragic murder was attributed to Juan Castillo Morales, known as Juan Soldado.
Minerva Tapia explains her selection criteria for these works, emphasizing their relevance and emotional impact. “Padres” connects deeply with audiences, evoking strong emotional responses.
The company has produced an extensive repertoire over the years, featuring works like “Entre dos aguas,” “Ciscarte,” and “Frontera” that consistently explore themes pertinent to the border region. These performances blend elements of folklore, literature, and interdisciplinary arts, making Grupo de Danza Minerva Tapia a unique contributor to contemporary dance.
**Tapia’s Vision of Border Dance and Its Evolution**
Reflecting on her journey, Tapia highlights the evolution of her dance language. “Over three decades, my understanding of border dance has deepened, incorporating extensive research and confronting evolving social issues,” says Tapia. She continues to see her choreography as a medium for social commentary and resistance.
**A Dedicated Team of Dancers**
The dedication of her dancers is evident, with current members Alejandra RamÃrez, Adrián Villeda, Salma RÃos, and Dayra Meraz contributing to the company’s vibrant energy. Tapia emphasizes the importance of a transdisciplinary approach, where dancers often possess skills in various dance forms, enriching the company’s performances.
The performances in Mexico City represent a pivotal moment for the Grupo de Danza Minerva Tapia, promising to leave a lasting impact on audiences.
**Additional News on the Grupo de Danza Minerva Tapia**
**Breaking News: Grupo de Danza Minerva Tapia to Represent Mexico at International Ballet Gala in Nicaragua**
In another significant achievement, Grupo de Danza Minerva Tapia is slated to represent Mexico at the International Ballet Gala in Nicaragua. This honor underscores the company’s growing international reputation and its role in promoting Mexican contemporary dance on a global stage.
Minerva Tapia expressed her gratitude and excitement for this opportunity. “It is not only a recognition of our hard work but also a chance to showcase the richness of our cultural narratives to a broader audience,” she remarked.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for more updates and in-depth coverage of upcoming events and performances by the Grupo de Danza Minerva Tapia.