Born and raised in Morelia, Maestra Guadalupe Castro Paramo began dancing classic ballet at the age 9. At the age of 15, she began dancing Folklorico under the direction of Juan Antonio González Soria, in Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico. Deeply invested in the practice of Folklórico, Maestra Guadalupe also attended the Instituto Michoacano de Arte Popular, also under Maestro Juan Antonio’s direction where she continued her studies and practice. Subsequently, and concurrently she did a stint at ARTE y CARIDAD, that was short-lived, but much fun for her. Her passion, dedication and discipline in the field, later led her to pursue a career in Anthropology. She received her PhD in Anthropology from the University of California, Los Angeles.

In 2012, she retired and moved to her hometown in Morelia, Michoacán, where she now teaches two adult groups. Her undying intrigue in learning more also led her to enhance her knowledge in Fandango. She has attended advanced workshops in the type of dance, learning under the direction of  maestro Leobardo Luna Ramìrez in Tlacotalpan, Veracruz.

Photo by Jasmin Avila, Danzantes Media

Maestra Castro Paramo joined the DUF familia in the late 90’s and has been teaching ever since. In her immense and invaluable contribution, she wrote three volumes of short monographs specifically directed to teachers of Mexican Folk Dance in the US.

A well respected member in the Folklorico community, and a treasure for Danzantes Unidos, Maestra Guadalupe Castro Paramo was the inspiration and first-ever recipient of the Danzantes Unidos Lifetime Achievement Award.  

At DUF 2016

Maestra Guadalupe will be teaching Tamaulipas Huasteco for adults.