For over 20 years, the Bailando International Dance Festival has spotlighted artistic excellence in the Coastal Bend dance community. What began as a labor of love by Nancy Sulik, the artistic director of the former CC Concert Ballet, and Jilissa Cotten, professor and director of dance at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, has grown into an event the arts community anticipates each year.
The festival first took place at Cole Park Amphitheatre in 2000; by 2012 it had moved to the TAMU-CC Performing Arts Center thanks to a partnership with the university. As the festival’s 25th anniversary on Oct. 3-5 approaches, we sat down with Cotten, now the executive director of Bailando, to discuss the visionary nature of the event, exciting plans for commemorating this milestone year and what you can expect from the incredible lineup.
Kylie Cooper: What is the main vision behind the Bailando International Dance Festival, and what role does cultural exchange play in the festival?
Jilissa Cotten: The Bailando International Dance Festival’s vision is to cultivate a vibrant dance community that fosters cultural exchange and artistic growth. Supported by Corpus Christi’s Arts and Cultural Commission, H-E-B Helping Hands and Corpus Christi Community Foundation, Bailando’s outreach program, aptly named the Bailando Dance Project (BDP), connects local schools with international artists for free dance classes. Last year, BDP reached 400 students, exposing them to diverse movement styles and fostering appreciation for different cultures. This program exemplifies how Bailando uses dance as a bridge between communities.
KC: Can you share details about the dance concerts this year? What kind of performances can the audience expect?
JC: This year’s festival offers a diverse and exciting lineup in celebration of Bailando’s 25th anniversary. The first two nights spotlight emerging talent with the Choreography Showcases. Saturday night’s Celebration Gala features a global fusion of dance styles, from the classical elegance of ballet to the vibrant energy of contemporary dance. Audiences can expect world-class performances from renowned companies like Compañía Cámara Danza UNA from Costa Rica and Ad Deum Dance Company from Houston, as well as local favorites. With a rich tapestry of cultures represented, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience.
KC: Can you tell us more about the master classes offered at the festival?
JC: Bailando’s master classes offer a unique chance to delve into styles one might not find at a local studio. This year’s lineup features a vibrant mix, including afro fusion and afro modern, commercial, Latin and theatre jazz, house dance fundamentals, tap and even full action contemporary floorwork. With over 25 classes to choose from, participants can learn from distinguished instructors to discover a new passion or refine existing skills. Online registration is simple and affordable.
KC: What makes the choreography showcase unique?
JC: The choreography showcase distinguishes itself by placing a unique focus on the creative process. Unlike traditional dance competitions, the emphasis is exclusively on the choreographer’s artistic vision. Participants receive in-depth feedback on their creative choices, style and conceptualization, without the pressure of dancer evaluation. This constructive criticism empowers choreographers to grow and refine their craft, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for artistic development.
KC: How do you ensure a diverse representation of dance styles and cultures at the festival?
JC: The Bailando Board is committed to showcasing the rich tapestry of global dance. We actively seek out and welcome dance forms from diverse cultures and styles. Bailando’s 25-year history is a testament to this commitment, with a rich performance history spanning from traditional Mexican Folklorico and Indian Bharatnatyam to contemporary styles like hip-hop and ballet. This eclectic mix ensures the festival offers something for everyone, celebrating the universal language of dance.
KC: What kind of impact do you hope the festival has on the audience and the dance community?
JC: The Bailando International Dance Festival aims to ignite a passion for dance within the Coastal Bend and hopes to inspire audiences by showcasing the incredible power of dance as a form of expression. By bringing together world-class guest artists and instructors, the festival creates a platform for artists to connect with one another and foster a deeper appreciation for the art form. Bailando strives to promote a vibrant and accessible dance community where creativity thrives and appreciation for cultural expression grows.
KC: How do you plan on commemorating the 25th anniversary?
JC: The 25th anniversary is a momentous occasion, made bittersweet by the passing of our co-founder, Nancy Sulik. Her dedication to dance education and community outreach was instrumental to the festival’s success. To honor her legacy, Bailando will celebrate her life and contributions while showcasing the diverse talent Bailando has fostered. We’re also excited to bring together our valued sponsors and guest artists for a networking event, recognizing their essential role in making the festival a reality.
KC: How have you seen the event grow over the last 25 years?
JC: Bailando has evolved dramatically over the past 25 years. From humble beginnings as a small outdoor event, it has blossomed into a major cultural force. Bailando expanded from a single company performance to a multi-day festival offering master classes, outreach programs and a world-class gala. The growth in community support has been equally inspiring, with grant awards and ticket sales increasing each year. Bailando has become a cornerstone of the South Texas community, providing a platform for diverse dance artists and enriching the lives of countless participants. Donor support is always welcomed and needed in order for Bailando to continue reaching out to the community.
