"While we know that music and dance were important components of Aztec ceremonies, none of the ancient dances survived the conquest," says Elin Danien, research associate at UPenn's Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology. "However, modern interpretations that draw on folklore and ethnohistory can be extremely evocative."

Ollin Yoliztli Calmecac — Philadelphia's resident Aztec dance troupe — would agree with the evocative part, but claims a direct link to the old Aztec art forms.

Daniel Chico, founder and teacher of Ollin, spent years as an Aztec dancer. Daily, he represented Mexico's indigenous heritage on the zocalo in the heart of Mexico City's historic center, before the ruins of the Templo Mayor. When Chico came to Philadelphia, he brought with him a whole hidden heritage.

"The dances were not lost but sheltered within the church-approved Conchero rituals for public consumption, with other parts kept safe among a trusted few," says Brujo de la Mancha, one of Ollin's founding members. Modern dancers have reintegrated the suppressed parts. Each August, Ollin commemorates the fall of Mexico ("the bellybutton of the moon") after the 1521 Spanish destruction of the ancient capital Tenochtitlan, situated where Mexico City now stands, with a formal show.

Ollin plans to open the Mexicayotl Arts and Cultural Center to raise awareness of indigenous arts and culture. However, they're not waiting until they have their own space to sponsor master artists. Xavier Quijas Yxayotl — of Huichol heritage, but master of many traditions — is arriving early for master classes with Ollin members. There are also limited spaces available on Friday for public classes.