Today we’d like to introduce you to Alejandro Meraz.
Hi Danza and Alejandro, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Danza Azteca Kuauhkoatl and Alejandro Meraz Chichiltekolotl.
Danza Azteca Kuauhkoatl is an Aztec dancers group found in 2021 by Alejandro Meraz, Leticia Enciso and Diane Andraca and based in San Diego, California dedicated to keep alive, teach and promote the Aztec Dance Tradition.
Its teacher Alejandro Meraz has been an Aztec dancer for over 30 years and taught about his indigenous culture for over 20 years in Mexico and US.
He’s collaborated with local theater companies as Teatro Izcalli, The Old Globe, Teatro Máscara Mágica y Teatro Tierra Caliente as a dancer, choreographer, musical directors and wardrobe department adviser. He’s also collaborated in music videos with multiple artists.
As indigenous musician he’s played ancient flutes with the well known flute maker and player Mac Lopez and with Red Warrior Kiowa drummers.
He’s worked with several photographers and international make up artist as indigenous model and some of his pictures have been exposed in shows in US, Mexico and Spain as well as in magazines, academic websites, cultural flyers and billboards.
He’s performed in multiple South California Pow Wows and In the Gathering of Nations in New Mexico, the biggest Pow Wow in the world as well as in national and international dance festivals.
He’s the teacher and founder of Danza Azteca Kuauhkoatl which offer all ages free clases in San Diego, CA.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the greatest challenges we face is keeping a living tradition alive in a world that often sees it as something of the past. For us, dance is not a performance — it’s a prayer in motion, a way to heal the heart and reconnect as a community.
As a cultural bearer, it saddens me to see how little is still known about the depth of our roots. But I also witness, again and again, how people come with open hearts and are transformed by this path. We may lack resources or helping hands at times, but we are never short on heart. What sustains us is the love for our ancestors, the strength of our circle, and the knowing that tradition lives on in every step we take together.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
In the group, I’m a guide, an organizer, and an older brother. I teach the dance, yes — but I also support people on personal and communal journeys. For me, dancing is a way to pray, to heal, and to remember who we are. I coordinate performances, ceremonies, and spaces where everyone —no matter their age or story— can feel part of something greater. I do it from the heart, as an act of service to our tradition and our community.
What’s next?
One of our main goals for the future is to strengthen our connection with ancestral dance groups in Mexico — seeking their recognition, guidance, and support. For us, that bond is a way to honor our living roots and walk with greater purpose on this side of the border.
We also want to keep training new generations, expand our presence in the community, and eventually have a dedicated space where we can teach, celebrate, and care for the tradition every day. We dream of this work growing like a tree — with deep roots and branches that reach more and more people.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/danza_azteca_kuauhkoatl and https://www.instagram.com/chichiltekolotl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088138672410 and https://www.facebook.com/ameraz3/
