Ballet Folklorico Los Lupenos Whirls Through Regional Traditions

Like good home cooking--simple but satisfying--such was Ballet Folklorico Los Lupenos’ peppy program Saturday at Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium. Hailing from San Jose, Calif., and under the artistic direction of Maria de la Rosa , this congenial company of musicians and dancers served up nearly two dozen traditional numbers highlighting various regions of Mexico.

The Veracruz suite included “La bruja” (the witch), wherein barefoot fishermen were lured ashore by a bevy of white-clad women balancing candles on their heads.

Festive circle dancing ensued as Los Cumbancheros, directed by singer-bongo player Rick Mendoza, let loose with buoyant mariachi sounds.

Also from Veracruz: “La bamba” showcased Cynthia Hernandez and Omar Perez as they tied a big red bow with their feet; and the perennial favorite, “El zapateado,” in which 10 dancers, though not always graceful, executed various line formations while beating out intricate rhythms with deft footwork.

Tamaulipeca came to life with “El caiman” (alligator), a mating dance characterized by partner circling and dipping.

Neither flashy nor overtly theatrical, this company nevertheless embodies the heart and soul of Mexico.