Contemporary Dance in Mexico began developing by the late 20th century, influenced by a blend of nationalistic expression and early 20th-century modernist tendencies. A significant push came in the 1960s, inspired by expressive movements from the United States that utilized diverse public spaces, prompting Mexican performers to explore new forms focused on individual feelings within a changing society. This trend fully incorporated in the 1980s, particularly during José López Portillo's presidency (1976–1982), which fostered greater access to arts and culture. Institutions like the National Institute of Fine Arts and Literature (INBAL) and the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), along with events such as the First National Dance Festival in 1981, were instrumental in disseminating the discipline nationwide. Breaking from classical ballet, Mexican contemporary dance is characterized by dramatization, new pedagogical techniques, and the inclusion of male dancers, often developing choreographies within varied contexts.