The Galerena: University of Guanajuato Folkloric Ballet traditional costume

As part of the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Ballet Folklórico of the University of Guanajuato (BAFUG), University of Guanajuato Television presents the documentary “La Galereña del BAFUG”, a production that explores the symbolism, historical impact, and expressive power through dance of the traditional Galereña costume. This attire traces its origins back over 100 years to the women who worked breaking stones in the galeras outside the mines located in Guanajuato, the capital city of the state with the same name.

More than just a costume, the figure of the Galereña is a symbol of strength, tradition, and culture. It pays tribute to the women of Guanajuato through dance and identity, standing as one of the most important cultural contributions made by BAFUG.

The documentary “La Galereña del BAFUG” features contributions from university researchers, directors of folkloric dance groups, historians, and members of BAFUG.

Production of the documentary included filming in the Guanajuato communities of Mineral del Cubo and Monte de San Nicolás. In addition, the production team conducted various interviews in the municipality of Puebla de Zaragoza, Puebla, to present a compelling historical context surrounding Mexico’s national costume par excellence: the China Poblana.