WOMEN INSPIRED | Meet Rosa Barraza of Aurora

by Kristen Kucharski, Photos Submitted

This Dancer is Also a Certified Tax Preparer, Licensed Cosmetologist, and Caregiving Manager

Rosa has lived in Aurora since 1978 and has vested herself into the culture, history, and business life of the city she calls home. She is a Certified Tax Preparer, Licensed Cosmetologist, and Caregiving Manager. Rich in preserving her family history, Rosa has been dancing with Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcóatl for the past 40 years.

Her parents, originally from Durango, brought her and her five siblings to the United States from Chihuahua Mexico when she was only 12 years old. What was intended to be a two week vacation, turned into months, and then into years; eventually establishing deep roots in Aurora where Rosa went on to meet her husband and raise four children.

Cultural and religious beliefs are a stronghold for Rosa, prompting 16 years of leading First Communion and Confirmation classes at her church. Additionally, she used her business skills as a volunteer with Family Focus, teaching Microsoft Tools to adults, enhancing their ability to create resumes, spreadsheets, and slideshows.

What is Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoati?

Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl is a 501c3 organization, led by Director And Choreographer Juan Manuel "Nery" Cruz, from San Luis Potosi, Mexico, who currently resides in Aurora. The group was originally formed to meet the need of preserving the most important aspects of Mexican culture, which is the folkloric dance. In Mexico, dance has always been an important part of the culture. Children often perform folkloric dances in schools during holidays and other special occasions.

The meaning of Quetzalcoatl originates from the ancient Mexican and northern Central American Civilizations. The name "Quetzalcoatl" literally means snake or serpent with feathers of quetzal, which implies something divine or precious in the Nahuatl language. Quetzalcoatl was the god of wisdom of the primitive Mexicans, a god of the air, or a sun-god and a benefactor of their race who instructed them in the use of agriculture and metals as well.

What do you love most about dancing with Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoati?

I love the beautiful dances, the colorful dresses, and the choreography. Even though I don’t dance all the dances I do like to practice with all the groups. It is a great exercise and dancing is my passion.

The dance that represents her home state of Chihuahua is the ‘Danza Tarahumara, Polkas Medley from the Revolutionary Era’. Through their dances, they communicate with God; express hopes, fears, desires for life, and their prayers for happiness and joy.

What traditions does your family personally pass down from generation to generation that you are most proud of - (dance, recipes, beliefs, etc.)

My mother has shared her favorite recipes and the joy of cooking. My family has also passed down the love of music from generation to generation. My father was a great musician and had a great voice. He played guitar, so I also learned to play during my teen years. Additionally, I have been a member of my church choir at St Nicholas Church in Aurora, for the past 40 years.

Which famous Mexican dancer, living or deceased, do you wish would visit your dance group and what inspires you about this dancer?

One of my personal dreams was to dance at the Paramount Theater. Since I have now accomplished that dream, I would like to dance at the White House with the group, and also go dance at the Presidential House in Mexico. Even though the group has had the opportunity to go dance in San Luis Potosí Mexico, for one reason or another, I haven’t had the opportunity to attend. I really don’t have a specific group that I can think of who has inspired me, because every group of dancers I see are unique and I enjoy every dance and every step they do. The group from Amalia Hernandez was a big inspiration.