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MFDC celebrated its fifteenth anniversary with a banquet and performance in April of 1997. Again the event was held at The South Shore Cultural Center. This marked the start of the millennium generation. Because of the prior elimination of the second group the millennium generation has been in constant transition and its dancers are the youngest ever in the company's twenty-year history. The millennium generation has had the great benefit of dancing to the live music of Chicago's musical pride and joy: Sones de México Ensemble Chicago. The synergy generated by live musical accompaniment and energetic dancers in a performance has become the very symbol of this group.
The millennium generation is a distant cousin of the founder's generation that made critical sacrifices for the company; of the tour genration that persevered and strengthened the company and of the world cup generation that witnessed many performances glories that the mark the Company's history. The millennium generation has benefitted from its cousin generations that built the company's reputation, and will also, most assuredly become an inspiration for future generations. This reputation increased the Company's exposure in Heartland America and brought in more recognition and awards. One was the Four Star Review, by the Green Bay Press Gazette for performances in the prestigious Weidner Center. Mini-tours have become the norm for the millennium generation. 
MFDC has performed for 20 years at the Museum of Science and Industry's Latino Horizons Festival and has been the promoting agency for all the Latino artists that participate. MFDC has performed for Dame Libby Komaiko's Ensemble Español. In 2001, WTTW Channel 11 Television and The Illinois Arts Council featured MFDC in a special production called "Arts Across Illinois". MFDC also had the honor of performing for Mexico's President Fox during his visit to Chicago in 2001. MFDC's audience has expanded to include many universities and colleges in the Midwest. Numerous lectures and workshops for public and private schools have also been presented to augment and support the educational dimension of MFDC's services. The Mexican Folkloric Dance Company of Chicago marked its 20th anniversary with a special concert in the Skyline Stage at Navy Pier, July 13, 2002. At this milestone, MFDC reflects on its rich past and looks forward to its continued development. Whether a dancer stays with MFDC for several years or just a few months, every dancer becomes a significant artistic contributor to the development and history of the organization. All the dancers have become a part of a special family that they have learned to love. |
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