Dear Performática, I loved hearing your generous, magnanimous words of why you do what you do regarding Performática. Our students got so much out of the experience of going to Performática and I thank you for that gift that ripples way out, and hopefully settles in the hearts of young women who will reach out fearlessly and respectfully to others who don’t look and sound like them. Thank you.

The Emma Willard (High School for girls) Dance Company enjoyed every aspect of Performática. They were honored to perform on a program with well-known artists in a theater that made them breathless. They interfaced with schools and groups outside the festival. At the State Children’s Hospital in Puebla, the dancers were touched by audience members, many of whom were orphaned because families could not afford to care for them, and by the elderly women who stood cheerleader-style chanting, “a la Bim Bom Bam” at the end of the showing. These high school girls felt safe in the UDLA environment: they negotiated getting food, came to know the campus, socialized with the locals and other Performática guests, and walked (or directed taxis) to planned destinations with all of the costumes and properties. All were thankful for the perfect accommodations, complete with kitchenette and filtered water. The school couldn’t have asked for a more ideal situation for their tour to Cholula and Puebla.

With great admiration, Sue

If curious, please see our website for more info and photos of our time in Puebla: 

http://www.emmawillard.org/arts/tourfantastico.php