Olivia Esquivez Gonzalez, a dedicated Baile Folklórico instructor, has been weaving the rich traditions of Mexican folk dancing with singing to inspire and uplift her community. 

Born in Mexico and migrating to the United States in 1979, Gonzalez has been a pillar in the community, promoting cultural heritage and personal growth through the arts.

Gonzalez’s journey with Baile Folklórico began in 1985 as a volunteer. 

“My children were little, and I knew that if I didn’t do it for them, nobody would,” said Gonzalez. 

Over time, her efforts expanded from her family to the broader community, and by 2012, she was formally teaching in schools. Though the pandemic halted her work, she resumed in 2023 with the renewed help of the West Side Theatre, also serving at Hunt Elementary, Yolo, Bonita and Von Renner.

Every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Gonzalez offers classes at the West Side Theatre. She divides her time between young children and older students, fostering a sense of cultural pride and community. Baile Folklórico, she explains, is not just about dance. 

“It’s the rhythm, the instruments, the music type, and the lyrics that express our history and culture,” said Gonzalez. 

This art form, rooted in the traditions of ancestral communities, has always been a medium for expressing gratitude and mourning.

Gonzalez’s approach is holistic. She incorporates singing into her classes, a skill she honed from her mother, who was raised among 12 siblings while singing through life’s hardships. 

“Since I was three, I’ve been singing,” Gonzalez shares. 

Her repertoire includes boleros and rancheras, traditional songs that have been passed down through generations. She has recorded four CDs and continues to perform with her band, entertaining families and community events.

“The singing part helps them express themselves and develop their vocabulary,” Gonzalez explains. 

Her classes cater to a diverse group, including children with developmental needs. She writes fun songs that engage and uplift her students, helping them find their voice.

Looking to the future, Gonzalez dreams of establishing an arts center. 

“I want to teach kids life skills and arts, from cooking and cleaning to dancing and singing,” Gonzalez mentioned. Although the pandemic disrupted her plans, she remains hopeful about planting seeds for future generations.

Gonzalez is also a dedicated volunteer, serving on the Stanislaus County Behavioral Health Board and supporting Catholic Radio. She encourages others to give back, emphasizing the importance of community service.

“I hope this article inspires other community members to serve,” Gonzalez says. Her story is a testament to the power of art in healing, expression, and community building.

If you would like to sign up for classes, contact Gonzalez at (209)230-2779. Classes are held every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sign-ups are offered during a time in the beginning of the year. If you like to sign up thereafter, Gonzalez encourages you to show up to class.