¡Viva Tejana! Dance Company: Bringing Tejano Rhythms to the NBA Stage on March 17 in Austin

Austin, Texas – On March 17, the ¡Viva Tejana! Dance Company will make history as the first contemporary Tejano music dance team to perform at an NBA game. As part of the San Antonio Spurs I-35 Series, this talented group of women will take the stage at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, during the pre-game festivities before the San Antonio Spurs face off against the Brooklyn Nets.

Founded in 2020 by director Sophia Salgado, ¡Viva Tejana! Dance Company is on a mission to preserve and celebrate the rich traditions of Tejano social dance. Their performances blend the early days of Tejano orquesta music with modern progressive styles, creating a unique and vibrant experience for audiences.

“We are proud to represent our Tejano heritage,” says Salgado. “Our goal is to educate, inspire, and entertain through our dance.”

¡Viva Tejana! comprises 45 women from all walks of life – working professionals, retirees, homemakers, and business owners. Their dance experience varies, with some members having years of practice and others new to the dance community. But what unites them is their love for Tejano music and their commitment to sharing it with the world.

Education is a fundamental part of ¡Viva Tejana!’s mission. The group delves into the history of Tejanos, exploring the cultural significance of being a Tejana. They also study Tejano music artists and the various musical rhythms that define this genre. Through their performances, they aim to pass on this knowledge to audiences and keep the Tejano spirit alive.

¡Viva Tejana! performs at various events, including fiestas, weddings, anniversaries, social gatherings, festivals, parades, theaters, VFWs, and retirement facilities. Their upcoming performance at the Moody Center is a testament to their dedication and passion for their craft.

“I founded ¡Viva Tejana! because I wanted to be part of a dance team that reflected my identity as a Tejana,” explains Salgado. “Tejano music dance teams didn’t exist, so I decided to create my own. This team fills a gap in the vibrant San Antonio dance community.”

If you’re in Austin on March 17, don’t miss the chance to witness history. ¡Viva Tejana! Dance Company will grace the stage with their spirited performance, set to the Tejano version of the Roy Orbison classic hit “Pretty Woman” and “Mujer Bonita” sung by Grammy winner Chente Barrera. Let the rhythm of Tejano music move you as these talented dancers showcase their passion and pride.

“I am extremely proud to say that we are the first contemporary Tejano music dance team to perform at an NBA game,” added Salgado.

• Date: Sunday, March 17
• Place: Moody Center in Austin, Texas / San Antonio Spurs vs. Brooklyn Nets game – Tip-off time is 6 p.m. (This game is part of the San Antonio Spurs I-35 Series.)
• Time: Pre-game performance around 5:30 p.m

For more information about ¡Viva Tejana! Dance Company, visit their Facebook page.

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