Danza Azteca en Filadefia (2006)

From a performance at the National Museum of the American Indian to interviews with Ollin Yoliztli Calmecac's group members, this short video provides viewers with a glimpse into the lives of four participants and into the tradition of Aztec dance. It is a timely film because it is a portrait of Mexican immigrants that is rarely, if ever, seen in the mass media. These are immigrants who are hard-working and devote an outstanding amount of time to ensuring the cultural survival of native traditions so that their children and community members may carry them on. As he introduces the troupe during a Day of the Dead festival, Daniel, the founder of OYC, states, 'We consider our group to be like a school. Because we are constantly learning about a culture that we have almost lost.' Roberto and his wife Lily make their own costumes, include their children in the dance ceremonies and express their devotion to cherishing their ancestry. Brujo is a teaching artist and deeply committed cultural activist. He is currently the artistic director and led the group to achieving non-profit status.