By Azucena Mazón / Shandra Keesecker-Rivero
For a seventh time, dance instructor Mariana Zatarain gathered young dancers to perform in honor of International Dance Day (celebrated across the globe on April 29th). On this occasion, the local celebration took place on April 27th and included performances across dance genres, a photo exhibit, and dance video to complement the choreographed works. Ballet, modern dance, hip hop, and contemporary dance were on display throughout the evening as numerous children and teens showcased their talents. Zatarain herself shared a powerful duet with a fellow dancer.
International Dance Day was first developed in 1982, honoring the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727-1810), the creator of modern ballet. It is meant to celebrate dance and its universality in crossing all political, cultural, and ethnic barriers. In Puerto Peñasco, Mariana Zatarain has been organizing events to honor International Dance Day since 2010.