It’s been 13 years since Puerto Vallarta’s Xiutla Folkloric Dance Troupe was founded. In that time, approximately one million people have enjoyed their performances locally, throughout Mexico and around the world; Xiutla de facto becoming Puerto Vallarta’s most important cultural ambassadors. Last year alone they traveled to China and then to South America to participate in Argentina’s important International Folkloric Dance Festival in the city of Cosquin. The group, directed by Enrique Barrios Limon, offers approximately 20 free performances at Los Arcos each year. Its more than 200 participants are divided into three levels, plus the touring company, which features the most accomplished dancers. The Xiutla is presently taking — not dancing — steps toward the construction of a Regional Dance Academy, where Mexico’s rich folkloric dance heritage will be preserved and classes in traditional and contemporary dance will be available for children and adults.