The MacCulloch Dancers under the direction of Rae MacCulloch and daughters Deborah Wheeler and Heather Forbes spent a week in Monterrey, Mexico as official representitives of Canada. The following is a brief story of our stay with the wonderful people of Mexico.

On arrival in Mexico we were greeted by an official from the festival who would guide us to our residence for our week's stay with musicians and dancers from around the world. Our luggage was quickly loaded into the bus and we were on our way to our hotel.

As we entered the hotel there was a flurry of excitement , as most of the countries were gathered in the lobby dressed in their colorful costumes. The sound of music coming from all corners. They were preparing for the first assignment which was a parade through the streets of Monterrey. We knew at once that this was going to be a terrific festival. To add to this we were in a five star hotel with all the luxury that one could wish for.

Participating countries included Croacia, Chile, Argentina, Costa Rica, Finland,

Republica Dominicana , Mexico and of course Canada. Although we have done this many times before, the excitement of living in the midst of people of so many different cultures never ceases to bring out feelings of ultimate peace and happiness. It is an honor and a pleasure to represent Canada at such a prestigious event. Our group excelled in their performances as well as public relations among the other countries. If only the world could share this experience, I am sure there would be less fighting between nations.

During our stay in Mexico we were treated to tours of museums including beer tasting which also included an art exhibition and the Baseball Hall of Fame. The Mexican baseball team was sponsored by the brewery. On another day we went to a rodeo, after which we gathered at an estate where we were served a delicious dinner, followed by a Mexican Ceilidh where all countries took turns dancing and singing. We also went to a combination disco and rodeo. Another opportunity to mingle with the countries without the formality of the concerts.

Denis and Deborah had a talent for finding unique places of interest in Monterrey. One such place was the market where they met their new friend

During televison and press interviews I had the opportunity of telling them the history of our beloved Glengarry which of course is responsible for our success internationally. They were in awe that our scottish heritage is still in existence in Canada after all these years. I explained it is simply a love of our heritage, music, song and dance.

The concerts which took place each evening continued to draw in great audiences. Canada held its own bringing people to their feet with thunderous applause. Music provided for the MacCulloch dancers was by Clara MacLeod, Denis Carr, Darrel MacLeod, Dave McCormick, Kenton McBean and Jim Forbes.

The mayors of the various cities where we performed presented us with gifts as did the other performing countries. We in turn left them not only with material gifts but a little of our culture and friendship from the Canada that we are so proud of.

We were congratulated not only by the other countries but by the President and executive staff of the festival. An invitation to return to Mexico in the year 2000 was extended to us.

It is always difficult saying goodbye to the people with whom we shared our traditons, laughter and friendship, if only for a week. I know we will meet again at some future festival, so with that in mind we left with a feeling of accomplishment.

Rae MacCulloch