From Los Cabos to London: Mexico Takes the Spotlight at Gala de Danza's UK Premiere

In June 2025, London will play host to one of the most anticipated arts events of the year: Gala de Danza. While the line-up includes globally renowned artists and breathtaking performances, it’s the Mexican roots of this international festival that form its beating heart. Born in Los Cabos and built on a foundation of creativity, collaboration, and community, Gala de Danza has long celebrated Mexico’s cultural richness. Now, as it prepares to debut in the UK, two standout Mexican talents will take centre stage: ballet dancer Andrés Zúñiga and acclaimed chef César Pita.

A Festival Born in Mexico

Gala de Danza was founded in 2013 by former American Ballet Theatre dancer Christina Lyon, with the vision of bringing the world’s finest performers to Mexico—and nurturing the next generation of talent. Over the last decade, the festival has become a symbol of artistic excellence, set against the spectacular backdrop of Los Cabos. It is here that young Andrés Zúñiga first dreamed of performing, and where Mexico’s vibrant creative spirit has flourished year after year.

Andrés Zúñiga: From Los Cabos to the New York City Ballet

Zúñiga’s story is a testament to the power of opportunity and perseverance. At just 13, he sat in the audience at Gala de Danza, captivated by what he saw. After the show, he told Lyon, “One day I would like to dance in your Gala.” Three years later, at 16, he was invited to perform—becoming the youngest dancer in the programme that year.

Now a member of the New York City Ballet’s corps de ballet, Zúñiga is the first Mexican-trained dancer to join the company. His return to Gala de Danza for its London premiere—performing Balanchine’s Stars and Stripes with principal dancer Emma Von Enck—marks a powerful full-circle moment, not only for him but for the festival that believed in him.

A Taste of Baja Sur in Westminster

Mexico’s influence doesn’t end on stage. Culinary star, award winning Chef César Pita, will headline the VIP dinner with a tasting menu that draws from the traditions of his native region, honouring the soul of Baja. As the mind behind celebrated Los Cabos restaurant Lumbre , Pita fuses local Mexican ingredients with international techniques, offering dishes that are both refined and deeply rooted.

For this exclusive Gala dinner, he’ll bring Baja’s flavours to London’s historic Central Hall Westminster, where his menu will reflect both regional pride and cosmopolitan flair. With training at Michelin-starred restaurants like Martín Berasategui (Spain) and Geranium (Denmark), Chef Pita is a symbol of Mexico’s evolving culinary excellence.

Mexico at the Centre of a Global Stage

Though the 2025 edition of Gala de Danza features a diverse international cast—including Royal Ballet principals, cutting-edge choreographers, and musical innovators—it is Mexico’s voice, heritage, and imagination that remain central to the festival’s identity.

As Artistic Director Christina Lyon puts it:

“From Los Cabos to London, Gala de Danza continues to elevate the voices and talent of Mexico on the world stage. This debut in London is a tribute to artists like Andrés and César, whose journeys inspire and connect across borders.”

Whether through the precision of a pirouette or the delicate balance of flavours on a plate, Gala de Danza champions the power of art to transcend geography—and this year, it proudly carries Mexico with it.