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When Memories
    Become Dance

October 17, 2026

Parr Center Theater
Central Piedmont Community College
Charlotte, NC

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A STORY TOLD THROUGH DANCE

What if every memory became a dance?

CHOLITA tells the story of a young Peruvian girl who leaves her homeland and begins a journey of self-discovery in a new world.

As memories of her family, traditions and childhood come alive, she discovers that her greatest strength has always traveled with her.

More than a dance performance, CHOLITA is an original theatrical experience where movement becomes storytelling and every dance reveals another piece of who we are.

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THE WORLD OF CHOLITA

Every scene is inspired by the traditions, music and cultural expressions of Peru.

Rather than presenting folklore as a collection of dances, CHOLITA invites audiences into a living world where memories take shape through celebration, music and movement.

Inspired by the cultural richness of Peru's coast, Andes, Amazon and Altiplano, the production celebrates the diversity that shapes the country's identity while telling a story that belongs to us all.

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THE VISION

CHOLITA was born long before it became a stage production. It was born at home.

Watching our children grow up between two cultures, we came to understand that our roots can become a refuge, a compass, and a source of confidence. We dreamed of creating a story that would inspire other children to discover that the very things that make them different can also become their greatest strength.

That is how CHOLITA came to life: a theatrical journey where memories become dance, and every step reminds us that we don't have to leave our roots behind to find where we belong.

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VISUAL IDENTITY BY

ELLIOT TUPAC

Internationally recognized Peruvian artist Elliot Tupac created the original visual identity of CHOLITA, bringing his iconic lettering and unmistakable graphic language to the production. Inspired by its themes of memory, identity, and belonging, his artwork gives CHOLITA a bold visual signature that celebrates heritage through a contemporary lens.

CHOREOGRAPHIC TEAM

At the heart of CHOLITA is a remarkable collective of Peruvian choreographers whose work has inspired audiences across Peru and the United States. Recognized for their artistic excellence, educational leadership, and commitment to preserving and reimagining Peruvian dance, they have become influential voices within the international cultural community.

United by a longstanding relationship with Salas Art Agency, they bring their distinctive creative perspectives to a shared vision, crafting a theatrical experience where tradition, innovation, and storytelling move as one.

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Kiara Gatica

Choreographer

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Antonio Vilchez

Academia de Danza Antonio Vilchez 

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Andrea Chuiman

Machita Mujer Caporal

MEET OUR LEAD ARTIST

SOPHIA ROMAN

AS CHOLITA

Contemporary dancer Sophia Román joins CHOLITA as the production's lead performer, bringing the title character to life with sensitivity, strength, and extraordinary artistry.
 

Through her performance, the audience experiences a heartfelt journey of memory, identity, and belonging that lies at the heart of the production.

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MEET THE COMPANY

CHOLITA is brought to life by the artists of PEX Dance Company, whose intergenerational cast reflects the very heart of the story. Professional artists, emerging performers, and young dancers come together on stage to create a shared theatrical experience where every generation carries memories, dreams, and a unique voice.

Together, they transform dance into storytelling, bringing authenticity, energy, and emotion to every moment of the production.

PEX Collective

PEX Teens

PEX Kids

The Artists Who Return
The Storytellers
The New Generation

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

A theatrical experience designed for audiences of all ages

Cast

25 performers
 

Language

No dialogue. Storytelling through movement.

Original Choreography

12 choreographic works
 

Running Time

100 minutes - 20 minutes (Intermission)

Multimedia

Immersive projection design
 

Live & Recorded Music

Traditional and contemporary Peruvian music

Recommended Age

6+
 

Customes

80+ handcrafted costume pieces

PRODUCTION CREDITS

An original theatrical dance production created through the collaboration of artists, designers, and cultural leaders who share a common vision: to celebrate identity, memory, and belonging through the performing arts.

Original Production

Salas Art Agency

in collaboration with

PEX Dance Company

Created & Directed by

Mauricio Salas & Angela Castillo

 

Starring

Sofía Roman

as CHOLITA

Choreographic Team

Antonio Vílchez
Andrea Chuiman
Kiara Gatica

 

 

Creative Team

Visual Identity

Elliot Tupac

 
General Production & Stage Management

Onelida Mogollón


Costume Design

Angela Castillo


Lighting Design

Lucho Baglietto


Music Editing & Sound Design

TBA


Projection Design

TBA

PARTNERS & SPONSORS

Stories like CHOLITA are possible thanks to organizations that believe in the power of the arts to connect communities.

Become part of this journey by supporting a production that celebrates diversity, youth leadership and cultural heritage.

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