Our philosophy
We believe great dancers are not only shaped by technique, but also by curiosity, discipline, and community. At Elari, every rehearsal is an opportunity to learn, every performance is a celebration of culture, and every dancer contributes to something greater than themselves.
Elari is a Mexican folkloric dance academy dedicated to preserving tradition while inspiring the next generation of dancers. Through technique, cultural exploration, and community, we create a space where dancers develop confidence, artistry, and a deeper connection to the stories and heritage behind every movement.
Honouring tradition. Inspiring growth. Building community.
Our leadership
Melissa Lowry
Founder, Artistic DirectorOriginally from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Melissa Lowry is a dancer, instructor, and designer whose work is deeply rooted in a passion for Mexican culture and the performing arts. In 2003, she founded Ballet Folklorico Puro Mexico, where she served as director, instructor, and dancer creating a space dedicated to celebrating and sharing the beauty of Mexican folkloric dance until 2024. With more than 15 years of experience as a performer, Melissa is devoted to honouring tradition while inspiring dancers to connect with their heritage through movement.
Melissa is also a graphic designer, author of two books, and the founder of a sewing and pattern design company focused on contemporary garment design. Through her work in textiles, she creates original fabric collections and handcrafted garments, blending artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling.
In addition to her work in dance and design, Melissa has planned and organized community events celebrating local craftsmanship, creating opportunities to showcase artisans and their work. She has also led the planning and execution of a multi-day conference featuring international speakers, bringing together professionals from around the world to foster learning, collaboration, and creative exchange.
Currently, Melissa brings her folklore dance expertise to the Plaza de Coco production at Disney Cruise Line, where she helps bring the vibrant traditions of Mexican culture to audiences around the world. Through Elari, she continues her mission of preserving heritage and creating meaningful connections through dance.
Omar Mendoza
Artistic InstructorOriginally from Colima, Colima, Omar Mendoza began his journey in Mexican folklore in 2003 with the Compañía de Música y Danza del Honorable Ayuntamiento de Colima. During his time with the company, he participated in numerous national competitions and cultural festivals, representing the state of Colima throughout Mexico in Michoacán, Guerrero, Veracruz, Chiapas, Puebla, Jalisco, Tlaxcala, Estado de México, Zacatecas, Durango, and many other regions. In 2007, Omar took part in an international cultural exchange across the Baltic countries of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, where he represented Mexican folklore on the international stage.
Beyond performing, Omar contributed to the company's artistic development by assisting with costume and prop management and supporting instructors during rehearsals and training.
Omar later served as the Artistic Director for the principal company of Ballet Folklorico Puro Mexico, where he helped shape the company's artistic vision, choreographic direction, and performance standards.
With over two decades of experience, Omar is dedicated to preserving the traditions of Mexican folkloric dance while inspiring dancers through disciplined training, cultural authenticity, and a passion for artistic growth.
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