SPAN111 Students Experience Mexican Culture Through Dance and Día de los Muertos Celebration | Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures

In early November, students in SPAN111 Sections 005 and 006 were treated to a special cultural experience when two dancers from the Mexican Folk Ballet Company in Toronto visited our class. This renowned Mexican dance company, established in Toronto, aims to share and preserve the rich history, culture, art, and spirit of Mexico through dance.

The dancers joined us on Monday, November 4th, during a class focused on vocabulary and cultural knowledge about festivals and celebrations in the Spanish-speaking world. Their visit was perfectly timed, as we were discussing various celebrations in Hispanic culture, and they came to talk about Día de los Muertos, a deeply meaningful Mexican celebration that honors deceased loved ones celebrated on November in Mexico and around the world.

The dancers not only demonstrated several traditional dances performed during this time, but also provided insight into other important elements of the celebration, including traditional costumes, alebrijes, catrinas, and masks. These symbols, rich with cultural significance, helped students gain a deeper understanding of the historical and spiritual roots of the holiday.

In addition to watching the performance, students had the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the topics covered in class in a real and meaningful way. They also participated in creating a Día de los Muertos altar, a traditional custom that honors ancestors. To enhance the celebration, students were able to sample pan de muerto (a special bread made for the occasion) and chocolate, both essential foods in the Día de los Muertos tradition.

As a final treat, the dancers taught students how to perform some of the dances associated with the holiday, giving everyone a chance to actively engage with the cultural experience.

This event was a meaningul way for students to connect what they have learned in the classroom with living, dynamic cultural traditions and to gain a deeper appreciation for Hispanic celebrations and traditions.

SPAN 111 - Dia de los muertos