WRL launches Latin Ballet of Virginia programs highlighting ‘rich cultural heritage’

WILLIAMSBURG – Williamsburg Regional Library (WRL) is offering a series of new Latin dance performances and hands-on workshops for local Spanish-speaking families.

The programs, which kicked off in January and will run through April, are supported by an Arts in Practice Grant awarded by the Virginia Commission for the Arts.

Participants experience a series of live Latin dance performances and hands-on workshops with the Latin Ballet of Virginia (LBV), presented as part of the library’s intergenerational story time program called “Cena con Cuentos.”

Sandy Towers, director of WRL, said the recently-awarded grant affirms that the programming offered by the library system is valuable and relevant.

“Our hope for these workshops is that they’ll provide our families who attend Cena con Cuentos with an opportunity to participate in Latin dance traditions that celebrate their rich cultural heritage and strengthen their sense of belonging within our community,” Towers said.

Each program features a mix of live dance, narration and rhythm illustrating cultural stories and traditions from throughout the Latin diaspora and Caribbean. The performances are followed by workshops during which artists guide participants in simple dance steps using bilingual instruction.

In addition to the special series, “Cena con Cuentos,” which translates to “dinner with stories” in English, is offered monthly at the Stryker Center. The family-oriented event features books, songs, rhymes, crafts and dinner.

Attendance has increased by 72% since the program’s inception in 2023, drawing an average of 41 visitors per session, according to WRL.

Marisol Betancourt Sotolongo, artistic director of the Latin Ballet of Virginia, underscored the role of local libraries in providing a space for learning, culture and connection.

“Our engagements in libraries allow us to meet families where they already gather and to share dance as a living language—one that welcomes all generations into the story,” Sotolongo said.

More information: Two additional programs will be held, including a workshop on March 17 and a performance on April 7. There is no cost to attend. Interested families can register by contacting Sara Meldrum, WRL’s youth service librarian, at smeldrum@wrl.org.