Life & Work with Victor Gutierrez of Boyle Heights

Today we’d like to introduce you to Victor Gutierrez

Hi Victor, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Chiquina Palafox was founded over seven years ago by my wife, Rosa, and I with a simple yet profound mission: to provide accessible Mexican folk dance classes to our community, regardless of financial circumstances. Our goal has always been to share and celebrate our vibrant culture with anyone eager to learn, no matter their skill level or background.

Both Rosa and I discovered our passion for dance at a young age, participating in after-school programs and community park activities. Today, we take immense pride in leading a growing group dedicated not only to showcasing the beauty of Mexican folk dance but also to preserving its rich traditions, ensuring our students gain a deep understanding of its history and significance.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced as a traditional Mexican folk dance group is obtaining authentic dance regalia. Each region in Mexico has its unique attire, and to honor the traditions and maintain authenticity, we source our costumes directly from those specific regions. This process can be both time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, the rising costs of high-quality dance shoes have added another layer of difficulty,
Thankfully we have received overwhelming support from the community, particularly with the dance shoe vendor Folkicks which donated over 20 pairs for our public schools and local dance groups.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Our group, Chiquina Palafox, was founded over 70 years ago in Guadalajara, Jalisco, by the grandmother of our current teacher. What began as a traditional dance academy remains a vibrant center for preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Mexican folkloric dance.

Our partnership with the group in Mexico has provided us with invaluable knowledge of traditional dances, their histories, and, most importantly, their cultural significance to each region. We are dedicated to passing down these stories through every dance, step, and piece of regalia, ensuring that our students not only carry on these cherished traditions but also develop a deep appreciation for the beauty and richness of their culture.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I wouldn’t say we’ve been “lucky.” Rather, we were prepared when opportunity knocked. Just over six years ago, the manager of the Grammy award-winning Mariachi Los Camperos invited my wife and me to become their dedicated dance group. Mariachi Los Camperos have long been a cornerstone in the Folklorico world, setting the standard for Mariachi Sones—a distinct subgenre within mariachi music and dance. This collaboration has been the pinnacle of our dance career, and it is something we take immense pride in.

Pricing:

• Our adult classes are free
• Our children’s classes are $35 monthly

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chiquinapalafox_la/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chiquina.palafox.5/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@chiquinapalafoxlosangeles9441