With over 50 years of experience in Mexican folkloric and cultural dance, Jorge Zarate Tristan is the visionary behind The Mexicans Folk Ballet. A former dancer with the world-renowned Ballet Folklórico de México and founder of Casa Cultural Mexicana in Toronto, he is a passionate choreographer, teacher, and cultural ambassador.

Jorge’s work has taken him across more than 10 countries, representing Mexico at major international festivals and leading groundbreaking cultural projects in Canada. He brings a powerful blend of tradition, creativity, and community spirit to every performance—keeping the heart of Mexican folklore alive on the global stage.

At the heart of Toronto’s vibrant arts scene, The Mexicans Folk Ballet is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Mexican Folklore. Through dynamic performances and inclusive classes, we bring the spirit, color, and tradition of Mexico to life for audiences and students of all backgrounds. The Mexicans Folk Ballet is made up of more than 80 dedicated members and features a repertoire of over 25 choreographed pieces, each inspired by the rich and varied regions of Mexico. While many of our performances honor traditional styles, others incorporate modern artistic elements, reflecting both the roots and evolving spirit of folkloric dance.

Our mission is to build community through culture—celebrating identity, inspiring pride, and connecting people through the powerful language of dance. Our doors are open to everyone who wants to experience the beauty and joy of Mexican folk dance. From cultural festivals to international collaborations, we’ve had the honor of sharing the vibrant spirit of Mexican Folklore across Asia, Europe, and beyond. We are proud to be recognized and supported by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council and the Ontario Arts Council

Rooted in tradition, driven by passion, and committed to cultural exchange—join us on stage, in class, or in celebration. ¡Viva la cultura!