As long as she can remember, Lilia Navarro has liked to dance. She began performing in school as a young girl, and in elementary school first became exposed to ballet folklorico.

“Feeling the liveliness and energy of Mexican folkloric music,” said Navarro “is something that excites me and makes me want to move.”

Raising a family took her away from performing, but after moving to Napa in the early 1980s, and with her daughters in school, she could devote more time to dance. She began teaching at her daughter’s school and as interest grew, so did the group.

Twelve years ago she opened her classes to the public and the group is now funded by donations and performance revenues. She’s taken a less active teaching role and now brings in professional dancers to teach classes. “As director of the ballet, I focus my energy on marketing the ballet,” said Navarro.

Parents and students are encouraged to participate in yearly fundraisers, to keep the group going.

“It is something that I truly love,” said Navarro, “and fills my soul with joy.”

For more information contact her at lilianava@gmail.com

Upcoming performances

May 1, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Napa Valley College, 5 de Mayo Festival

May 3, 8 p.m., Napa Valley Fairgrounds, Chardonnay Hall

May 4, noon, Calistoga’s Annual 5 de Mayo Parade.

May 4, 3:30 p.m., Calistoga Fairgrounds, Main Stage, 5 de Mayo Festival