I’m excited about a fairly new social networking site that instantly grabbed my attention when I first heard about it on CNN a little while back. Taltopia, a Los Angeles based media distribution and social networking company, launched back in March of 2007. The goal of Taltopia is to provide a platform for people to showcase their talent. Actors, singers, musicians, comedians, artists, models and more are all welcome to participate. If you have the talent, all you have to do is upload your media such as audio, video, or photos, and start being seen.

Not sure of your talents? No problem! You can join the Taltopia critic crowd and begin offering your opinions on those showcasing their stuff. Fans and critics vote for their favorites, giving them that extra edge they seek. Those with talents who get a higher amount of votes get featured on the front page of the website, offering even more exposure for those wanting to claim their fame.

I think sites like this are a fantastic opportunity to gain that extra bit of exposure one needs to get noticed. Those who wish to share their talent have plenty of avenues to explore, but there is always room for additional opportunities. Everyone knows there are talent agencies and talent agents all over the place, but it really comes down to networking and connecting with the right people at the right time. The coolest thing is that Taltopia is a FREE service for everyone. Visitors can register for free and simply create their own profile.

Let’s face it, it seems like everyone is trying to be some sort of celebrity these days. Everyday aspiring talent is searching for casting calls, looking for gigs, and trying to create additional self promotion. And even those who don’t seek celebrity status find alternative ways to participate, like voting for others. Look at the explosive amount of people who vote for their favorites on hit television shows like American Idol and Dancing With the Stars. And those are only just a couple popular shows where you viewers can vote. Growing communities of individuals who strive for fame, fortune, and participation have all come together, and I think a website like Taltopia makes it even more exciting for everyone.

If you find yourself asking that question, I’ll help shed a little light. It is Cinco de Mayo after all. I know many who will be celebrating today, so it’s probably appropriate to bring a little bit of attention to the Mexican Hat Dance, the “national dance of Mexico”. The non-English name of the dance is known as the Jarabe Tapatío.

In celebration of the end of the Mexican Revolution in the early 20th century, Felipa Lopez choreographed the Jarabe Tapatío. The folk dance, usually performed by a couple or group of people, became very popular in both Mexico and the United States.

There are all sorts of websites that offer different variations and dance steps of the cultural Mexican Hat Dance. I have compiled a list of sites that may help you learn the dance if this interests you.

How to Do the Mexican Hat Dance - Children’s Activity Page

Mexican Hat Dance - Article at Buzzle

About the Jarabe Tapatío at Wikipedia