About the Owner
Hi there! I’m Karla Hardaway, a proud mom to two amazing children, OB and Kori, and happily married to my wonderful husband, O'Bryan Hardaway. My journey with Ballet Folklórico has been life-changing, and I’m thrilled to share this passion with others.
As an educator with 18 years of experience in Title I schools, I’ve seen firsthand how cultural representation can transform a student’s confidence and sense of belonging. Ballet Folklórico is more than a dance; it’s a vibrant celebration of identity, history, and artistry. I’m passionate about helping educators and students access the tools they need to honor and share these cultural stories, starting with the costumes that bring each region’s traditions to life.
Costumes are the heart of every performance, telling stories through their colors, intricate designs, and symbolism. That’s why I’m dedicated to helping educators connect with talented Mexican artists who can bring their vision to life. By collaborating with these incredible artisans, we honor their craftsmanship while giving students and educators the opportunity to create something truly meaningful for their programs.
My own love for Ballet Folklórico began as a student at Molina High School in Dallas, Texas, and deepened during my time performing with the International Dance Company at Texas Woman’s University and later with Ballet Folclórico Nacional de México de Silvia Lozano. Now, as a Dance Instructor, Drill Team Director, and Folklorico Dance Company Director at Creekview High School, I work every day to empower students to embrace their identities and express themselves through dance. I believe every child deserves to see their heritage reflected on stage, and the right costume created with care and authenticity can make all the difference.
As the founder of the Texas Association for Dance and Culture, co-author of the Mexican Folkloric Dance and a contributing author to Dance Teaching Methods and Curriculum Design, 2nd Edition, I’m committed to advancing dance education and helping schools find ways to make cultural representation accessible. Whether it’s connecting educators with Mexican artists or finding affordable, authentic costumes, my goal is to make this process inspiring and meaningful for everyone involved.
Thank you for visiting my page! I’m honored to support you as you bring the vibrant world of Ballet Folklórico to your students. Together, we can celebrate the beauty of our heritage and the incredible artistry of Mexican designers who make it all possible.