Discover 50 years of folklórico dancing tradition in Orange County and view “Con Cada Paso: A Visual Celebration of Relámpago del Cielo Grupo Folklórico” now on display at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana (211 W. Santa Ana Blvd.). In collaboration with Relámpago del Cielo, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit cultural arts organization, the exhibit was developed in-house by OC Parks staff and features interpretive panels, photographs, authentic folklórico costumes and more.
“I am proud and excited to invite the community to enjoy this unique art exhibit at the historic County Courthouse,” said Vicente Sarmiento, Orange County Board of Supervisors. “It is a privilege to showcase a half-century of the joy and cultural connection that 2nd District-based Relámpago del Cielo Grupo Folklórico has brought to Orange County through dance. Folklórico dance not only delights audiences but has helped build a cultural bridge to Mexican traditions for generations of Santa Ana and County residents.”
Established in 1975 by Rosie Peña, a former dance instructor at Santa Ana College, and a handful of dance students, Relámpago del Cielo Grupo Folklórico united members through their passion for music and appreciation of the folklore of Mexico. The exhibit showcases the group’s storied past spanning five decades including its humble beginnings, key members, notable performances and its commitment to preserving the traditional Mexican artform of dance that continues to serve the community.
Admission to the exhibition is free and open to view at the Old Orange County Courthouse historical gallery Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through the end of the year. Metered parking is available at the on-site lot and surrounding street parking. Additional parking is available at lot P8 (301 W. 5th Street). Parking fees apply.
For information about the art exhibit and the Old Orange County Courthouse, visit parks.oc.gov/oldcourthouse.
