Diverse Latin American women dancing together joyfully in warm golden light

A Cultural Dance Collective

Celebrating Life Through Culture, Movement, and Connection

A community of women embracing expression, heritage, and joy—at every stage of life.

Two Latin American women sharing a warm moment during dance practice

Our Story

Where Heritage Meets Heart

SOLA—Sol Latinoamericano—is a living bridge between the traditions of our past and the resilience of our present. What began with Maestra Olga Gordillo's journey from the marimba stages of Guatemala to the community rooms of Chicago has evolved into a sanctuary for the Latin American diaspora.

We bring together women from Colombia, Chile, Peru, Mexico, and beyond—united by a shared love for cultural expression. Many of our members had never danced or performed before joining; for them, SOLA is a 'First-time Ancestry.' What began as movement became medicine: a space for healing, connection, and rediscovering joy amidst the challenges of aging and health.

Through dance, history, and ritual, we honor our roots while building something entirely new—a sisterhood that celebrates every stage of life with grace, laughter, and courage.

"We are proof that it's never too late to begin."
— The Women of SOLA

About SOLA

Olga Gordillo

Co-founder & Artistic Director

Music and dance have been an integral part of Olga's life for as long as she can remember. Originally from Guatemala, Olga began her journey by dancing with the Folklore Music Group Siguan Tinimit. In her late teens and early twenties, she traveled alongside her father, who played the marimba, representing Guatemalan folklore.

When she moved to Chicago in her mid-twenties, she joined a local theater group. However, life took her in different directions, and her artistic passions were put on hold for many years. A few years ago, now a widow and grandmother, Olga decided to return to what she had always loved.

This time, however, things were different. She was older, and her new group of friends—coming from different Latin American countries—had no prior experience in folkloric dance, theater, or performance of any kind. Some were cancer survivors, while others were living with medical conditions.

What began as a personal endeavor soon evolved into a community rooted in challenge, compassion, learning, and perseverance. Today, Olga finds even greater joy in the process, witnessing how dance and performance bring renewed life and possibility to those who once believed it was beyond their reach.

Olga Gordillo, Founder and Artistic Director of SOLA Cultura

Building the platform behind the work

Emily Herrera

Co-Founder & Executive Director, Strategy & Growth

Emily leads the development and growth of SOLA, shaping its organizational structure, partnerships, and long-term vision. With a background in branding, strategy, and program development, she leads the initiatives that expand SOLA's reach and bring its mission to a wider community.

Emily Herrera, Co-Founder and Executive Director of SOLA Cultura

The SOLA Experience

More Than Movement

Adaptive Movement

Discover the liberation of movement. Our sessions are about feeling, not perfection, letting the music guide you.

Ancestral Wisdom

Each dance carries centuries of tradition. We explore the stories, rhythms, and rituals woven into Latin America's cultural heritage.

Shared Rituals

More than a gathering, it is a circle. We foster deep connection through shared traditions—reminding us that the courage to begin again is something we hold together.

The Second Act

A reclamation of vitality. Through the lens of heritage, we rediscover strength and beauty—honoring the wisdom of age while opening space for what comes next.

Cultural Showcase