Ballet Folklórico de México will perform at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18, in W.M. Turner Auditorium on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University. The performance is part of the SFA College of Fine Arts' University Series.

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The internationally acclaimed Ballet Folklórico de México will bring Mexico's rich cultural heritage to the stage of W.M. Turner Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18, as part of the Stephen F. Austin State University College of Fine Arts' University Series.

A twirling pageantry of rhythm, lively dance steps and brightly colored costumes will delight audiences of all ages when the folkloric dance group takes viewers on a journey through Mexico's past.

For more than 50 years, the musical and technical perfection, sophisticated wardrobe and original choreographies have created lasting impressions for audiences worldwide, making Ballet Folklórico de México a perfect selection for the 2012-2013 University Series, "Expressions," according to John Goodall, associate dean of the SFA College of Fine Arts.

"We are pleased to bring this kind of energetic and exciting fine arts entertainment to our area as part of our University Series," Goodall said. "The audience will enjoy the spirited music, technical perfection, colorful wardrobe and imaginative choreography of this distinctive dance group's performance."

Ballet Folklórico de México founder Amalia Hernández, dancer and choreographer, and the ballet group have been distinguished with more than 400 awards recognizing artistic merit, according to information found at www.camimusic.com.

Before the performance, there will be a 7 p.m. informative talk presented by Elizabeth Rhodes, professor of dance in the SFA Department of Health and Kinesiology, in Griffith Gallery, located across the hall from Turner Auditorium. The audience is invited back to the gallery for a post-performance reception to honor the event's corporate sponsor, Lehmann Eye Center.

Tickets range from $17.50 to $35, with discounts available for seniors, SFA faculty and staff, students and youth. For tickets or information, visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.

The dance group will perform again at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 19, as part of SFA's Children's Performing Arts Series.