About Us

History of Compañía de Danza El Sol

In 1987, under the direction of Maestra Irene Palacios-González, the El Sol Dance Company was founded. The small group of under 10 adult dancers rehearsed at city parks and school cafeterias before they could afford their first studio. One dancer who began with Maestra González and remained with her throughout the years was Jaime Morales. Whenever Maestra González took a leave of absence, due to his loyalty and devotion to the group, she always relied on Jaime Morales to take her place. After the passing of Maestra González, Maestro Jaime Morales took full charge of the group and for legal purposes the group’s name was changed to Compañía de danza El sol (El Sol Dance Company). Maestro Morales has since earned the title of Professor Morales after graduating from La Escuela Superior de Danza Folklórico, Zitlalkiahuitl A.C. in 2020.

Since the birth of Compañía de Danza El Sol, the vision has been the promotion of Mexican Folklórico Dance and Culture. Because of this vision, CDDES has always strived to be inclusive of all dancers who have a heart and passion for dance. Compañía de Danza El Sol was instrumental in bringing the first Danzantes Unidos Festival to Fresno and continues to participate annually by volunteering as well as providing instructors for the yearly festival. For 35 years, we have been a performing group that is proud to have a long history of performing throughout the Central Valley and California. Our long-standing presence in the community has been instrumental in our contributions of helping dancers become some of the most dedicated and committed dance teachers in the valley. We continue to build our knowledge and education as we participate in many festivals and workshops throughout the United States and México. Our group is like a family, from our little ones to our adults. Our vision and group will continue to grow and expand as we celebrate our 40 years of existence. We hope to continue to serve our community for years to come.

Mission Statement

To enhance our Mexican tradition and culture by showcasing our beautiful dances with our gritos mexicanos (Mexican chants/yells) in order to teach our young ones the richness of Ballet Folklórico (Mexican Dance) and to educate the community through our dancing.

Monday

High School CORE: 15-17 yrs old (7:00-8:30) *experience required*

Tuesday

Advanced Middle School: 12-14 yrs old (5:30)

Beginner Middle School/High School: 12-17 yrs old (6:30)

Adults CORE: 17+ (7:30-9:30) *experience required*

Wednesday

Infantil: 4-7yrs old (5:30-6:15pm)

Beginner Adults: 17+ (6:30)

Intermediate Adults: 17+ (7:30-9:00)

Thursday

Niños B: 7-11 yrs old (5:30)

Niños A: 7-11 yrs old (6:30)

Adults CORE: 17+ (7:30-9:30) *experience required*

Registration