Paso de Oro (Whittier)

History of Paso de Oro

Paso de Oro was founded in 1994 by Alicia Mendibles, Executive Director/Artistic Designer/Instructor. Paso de Oro currently has more than 30 years of experience and we are one of the premier Ballet Folklórico/Latin Dance Studio ensembles in Southern California.

Maestra Alicia Mendibles

Our Mission

Paso de Oro's mission is to create a studio that honors past and current Mexican culture through music, costumes and the art of dance. At Paso de Oro, we encourage every performer to dedicate themselves to the love of dance as we attempt to inspire our youth to gain the "Courage" with challenging tasks. We teach discipline in our performers as they work together with others and learn how to care and value teamwork will developing a strong "Character" that will assist all of our performers in their future careers and daily life. "Commitment" is a skill developed by our performers as they gain the ability to respect, honor and dedicate themselves to the Paso de Oro family and its traditions.

Paso de Oro currently has over 30 years of experience and we have developed into a diverse studio that promotes self awareness and well being through inclusive opportunities. We encourage all of our performers to become goal oriented, passionate about learning, innovative in costume designs and the ability to become future leaders through leadership roles and dance opportunities. At Paso de Oro we are committed to assisting all of our performers become empowered in their dance activities, strive for excellence, have the freedom of self expression without judgement, and become knowledgeable about Mexican heritage and Mexican traditions.

Our professional leadership, expert instructors and dedicated team management staff have the knowledge and dedication to motivate each performer as they experience Paso de Oro's culture and customs. Come join Paso de Oro as we work toward preserving our rich Mexican heritage and instill a strong sense of Mexican cultural pride in our youth.

Viva Paso de Oro!

Artistic Directors and Instructors

Alicia Mendibles

Founder/Director/Instructor

Ms. Alicia embraced Ballet Folklórico at an early age under the direction of Lily Aguilar and Maria Quiroz. She has shared the stage with accomplished artists such as Linda Ronstadt, Lalo Guerrero, Mariachi Cobre and Mariachi Sol De Mexico.

Alejandro Rey

Co-Owner/Director/International Performer and Latin Gold Artistic Director

Alejandro is a seasoned performer with more than 30 years experience in multiple disciplines such as Folklórico, Merengue, Bachata, Samba and Salsa.

Ariela Conde

Latin Gold New Edition Assistant Director

Ariela is a versatile dancer with 20 years of experience in classical, commercial, and cultural dance. She solidified her skills at the UC Irvine and the Let's Dance Company specializing in ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and Latin dance.

Ariela has performed with renowned companies like Contra Tiempo, Viver Brasil, and Ocadeniye Dance Company. Ariela has also toured with various artists, TV shows, short films, and live concerts. Ariela has 16 years of teaching experience she is dedicated to educating others about dance, its history, and its culture.

Brenda Navarro

PDO Danza Instructor

Ms. Brenda Navarro has been dancing since the age of 2!! She is trained in various Latin styles that range from Merengue, Punta, and Samba. Ms. Brenda has been teaching for about 15 years and is experienced in teaching students of all ages and backgrounds.