Founded in 1994 by Yolanda Ramos-Colosio, Instituto Mazatlán Bellas Artes de Sacramento ([IMBA] 4300 Stockton Boulevard ) is a multi-faceted, non-profit artistic venture in performance arts. IMBA’s programming includes Folklórico, Classical Ballet, Urban Jazz and music, both instrument and voice, with instruction for beginners to professional level. The newly renovated 6,000-square-foot studio, purchased in 2011, hosts more 200 students at various levels.
“We were looking for a permanent location. A neighborhood that needed us,” says Abraham Perez, IMBA’s Administrative Director. “IMBA supporters bought the building; it’s worked out really well. Our presence has changed the dynamic of this corner. People and the neighborhood respect the space. Community and family values are IMBA’s foundation. The majority of our professional performing company comes from right around Stockton Boulevard corridor. The impact is so subtle yet distinct. We provide a cultural connection and identity through performing arts, allow people to express themselves and change the lives of thousands of people."
IMBA’s professional performing company is honored to be considered an esteemed Mexican folklore ensemble in the region. As the dance company evolved and created unique works of dance, the company became renowned as Ballet Folklórico de Sacramento, as it is known today. IMBA started out serving primarily Latino populations through Folklórico dance. The goal now is to add other forms of cultural arts and reach into other communities. In 2016, they invited an urban jazz program, which is African- American based.
Executive Director Yolanda Ramos-Colosio started IMBA to provide space for under-serviced communities to practice and present their art forms; so that any youth who wanted to dance, could do so. Affordable arts are IMBA’s main goal; the fees are still among the lowest in the city.