Focal Point: Alicia Vera captures the spirit of Mexico City’s sonideros
Part of a musical heritage that dates back generations, Mexico City’s kiosks and public spaces unite local communities with weekend dances that bring people of all ages together. Here we celebrate the people and places at the heart of the city’s sonidero tradition
Mexico City’s modern-day music scene is a compelling, cosmopolitan riot of global influences from across Latin America and beyond. Yet while a new generation of clubs, parties, artists and collectives create waves internationally, another equally charismatic side to the city’s dance culture plays out at its kiosks and public parks.
According to photographer Alicia Vera, these weekend sonideros – attended by a mix of families and seniors looking to spend an afternoon dancing with friends or partners – shine a light on an essential part of Mexico City’s history. “These kiosks have been a focal point for musical performances since the colonial period in Mexico and, with the arrival of danzón music from Cuba in the 1880s, the two became inseparable,” she says. “Many of those who attend go every Sunday in their best outfits and have been going for years. It’s a space to let go of stress and participate in a tradition that’s been going on for decades.”
Today, live musical performances have largely been replaced with sonideros – part DJ, part MC – who mainly play a blend of cumbia, salsa and danzón. In 2023, Sandra Cuevas, the former mayor of Cuauhtémoc, tried to shut down one of the sonideros after alleged complaints from neighbours but, following popular protests, a judge ordered Cuevas to allow these events to continue. City authorities have since named these sonideros part of its cultural heritage.
Vera visited Mexico City’s Kiosko Morisco – a striking neo-Mudejar landmark in Santa Maria de La Ribera, to the west of Mexico City’s historic centre – to capture the spirit of the city’s sonideros. “I love the sense of community among those who attend – their energy is contagious, their dance moves are unparalleled and their unique style alone makes it a dream for a photographer,” she says, adding that her biggest challenge was to capture photographs between incoming invitations to dance. “I found seniors who just wanted to find joy within their community through dance. I met people who have been attending for more than ten years and others who told me that dancing is what keeps them young.”
