Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy
Mexican folklore dance, mariachi music, and Nahuatl language in Phoenix since…
Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy, founded in 1994, is an Arizona-based educational institution dedicated to preserving and teaching authentic Mexican culture through dance, music, and language.
Before your first class
Classes are designed for all levels from beginner to advanced, with age groups starting from 3 years old in a structured, supportive learning environment.
About this studio
Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy, founded in 1994, is an Arizona-based educational institution dedicated to preserving and teaching authentic Mexican culture through dance, music, and language. The name means "Life & Movement" in Nahuatl, the Mexican indigenous language. Under the direction of Master Instructor, Choreographer, and Researcher Ana M. Bonilla, the academy has built a reputation for artistic excellence and cultural authenticity.
The academy teaches Mexican Folklore Dance with curricula meticulously designed through historical research. Students learn not only dance techniques but also the cultural significance behind each movement, exploring regional styles from Jalisco to Veracruz and the diverse dances of Mexico's indigenous communities. The academy is also home to Arizona's Mariachi Music Academy, a specialised advanced mariachi programme offering instruction for all ensemble instruments—violin, trumpet, vihuela, guitar, and guitarrón. Students immerse themselves in the history and cultural significance of mariachi, understanding its role in Mexican celebrations, festivals, and community life.
In a unique offering, Ollin Yoliztli operates the first Nahuatl language and culture educational programme available in the United States. Instructors hold graduate degrees in language and pedagogy and are native speakers. Nahuatl is Mexico's second most popular language, with over 1.5 million speakers across 15 Mexican states.
The academy welcomes students from age 3 upwards, offering classes for all ages and genders. Programmes are structured with levels ranging from beginner to advanced and professional, designed to support each student's unique journey. The school also houses Ballet Folklórico Arizona, the academy's professional Mexican folklore dance ballet, available for corporate and private events.
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organisation, Ollin Yoliztli is committed to preserving Mexico's rich history, traditions, and customs through exhilarating performances, authentic choreographies, and outstanding educational programmes. Students perform on renowned stages around the world, representing Mexican culture in its purest, most traditional form.
What to expect
Your first visit
Ollin Yoliztli welcomes students of all ages starting at 3 years old in a family-oriented environment. Classes are structured from beginner through advanced and professional levels, with a focus on authentic cultural learning alongside dance and music technique.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The academy is directed by Master Instructor, Choreographer, and Researcher Ana M. Bonilla. Nahuatl instructors hold graduate degrees in language and pedagogy and are native speakers of Nahuatl.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Classes are designed for all levels from beginner to advanced, with age groups starting from 3 years old in a structured, supportive learning environment.
Studio history
Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy was founded in 1994 under the direction of Master Instructor, Choreographer, and Researcher Ana M. Bonilla. The academy's name, meaning "Life & Movement" in Nahuatl, reflects its mission to transmit Mexican culture, art, and traditions to the world. It operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving culture and educating with purpose.
Styles offered
4 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy teach?
Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy teaches General, Mexican Folklore Dance, Mariachi Music (all instruments), Nahuatl Language and Culture. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy located?
Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy is located in Phoenix, AZ. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy offer private lessons?
Contact Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy teach kids and adults?
Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy?
The fastest path is to visit Ollin Yoliztli Dance Academy via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.