Houston – For Heleny Paloma Mendoza, the love of dance started at just 6 years old.
Her parents encouraged her to find an activity she enjoyed, and she tried gymnastics and ballet. But as a shy child, neither one felt quite right.
Paloma Mendoza, creator and instructor at Instituto de Arte Nokali (Copyright 2026 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Then she discovered Ballet Folklórico.
“As soon as I saw the dancers and music, the big skirts, the color, I was like, ‘This is for me,’” Mendoza said. “It was love at first sight.”
Mendoza’s passion never faded. She says she rarely missed a practice and was often the first one there and the last one to leave. Today, she shares that same passion with students through her work as owner and instructor of Instituto de Arte Nokali.
Pamela Mendoza and dancers with Instituto de Arte Nokali (Copyright 2026 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Ballet Folklórico is deeply connected to Mexican culture and serves as an expression of pride, freedom and tradition. The colorful costumes, music and choreography help showcase the beauty and diversity of Mexico while allowing dancers to connect with their heritage.
Mendoza says, teaching the art form is about more than dance. It’s an opportunity to help a new generation build confidence while learning about and proudly representing their culture.
That cultural pride takes on special meaning around Mexican Independence Day, celebrated Sept. 16. The holiday commemorates the beginning of Mexico’s fight for independence from Spain in 1810 and is a time for celebrating Mexican identity, history and heritage.
Mendoza hopes audiences see that pride when they watch her dancers perform.
She says people often recognize Ballet Folklórico by the colorful costumes, ribbons and headpieces. Her goal is for someone to see a dancer and immediately think, “That’s Mexican,” while appreciating the beauty and meaning behind what they’re seeing.
Dancers with Instituto de Arte Nokali (Copyright 2026 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
The dancers of Instituto de Arte Nokali recently brought that tradition to life with a performance showcasing the music, movement and energy of Ballet Folklórico.
The group will also take part in an upcoming Día de los Muertos celebration on Oct. 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. in Deer Park. The event will feature vendors, food and a performance from the dancers.
Instituto de Arte Nokali is also available for cultural, community and private events. Follow the organization on Instagram and TikTok at @institutodeartenokali to learn more.
Copyright 2026 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.