ABOUT
Calmecac Tezkatlipoka Aztec Dance & Drum (Tezkatlipoka) is a traditional school of learning of Aztec dancing, drumming and culture and is a traditional Aztec dance circle based in San Jose. Tezkatlipoka is also well-known in Silicon Valley as a community based performing arts dance group that promotes an appreciation and understanding of pre Colombian art forms through traditional Aztec dance and music. Tezkatlipoka works towards integrating all dimensions of Meso American dance, music, and performance art while honoring the cultural traditions left behind by our ancestors. Tezkatlipoka has shown a deep commitment to the advancement of Aztec art forms by offering free and open weekly community classes and through delivering arts education for school and community-based cultural presentations and events. Through these cultural programs, Tezkatlipoka celebrates cultural diversity by exploring common links that bring and connect all people together in a celebration of movement, art, and life.
VISION
MISSION
Tezkatlipoka's mission is to share and promote indigenous Meso American culture through Aztec dance and drumming. Tezkatlipoka strives to maintain a high level of integrity in both teaching and presenting Aztec dancing & drumming that is true to form so that it can be preserved in all its beauty and strength for future generations to come. The group's philosophy centers on preserving the sacred traditions left behind by our ancestors while sharing and exchanging cultural knowledge as a way to foster a sense of unity between all peoples of the Earth. HISTORY
Calmecac Tezkatlipoka Aztec Dance & Drum was originally founded in 1988 by Texomazatl (David Vargas) as a traditional Aztec dance circle and cultural performing arts group in San Jose, California. Currently, there are over 15 group members in the dance circle, in addition to new beginner students that attend weekly classes. The group also has a history of collaborating with other Bay Area Aztec dancers and dance groups whether it be through participating in traditional ceremonies or inviting other dancers to different performances throughout the greater Bay Area. |