The innovative choreographer, director, and flamenco dancer Manuel Liñán brings his Olivier Award-nominated show ¡VIVA! to the Peacock Theatre in London.
Sadler’s Wells’ Home of Entertainment in the West End, running from Thursday, 17th October to Saturday 19 October.
Making its debut at the Peacock Theatre, ¡VIVA! was first showcased in London at Sadler’s Wells Theatre during the Flamenco Festival in 2022 – and now it’s back!
What to expect? Well, it’s flamenco, but not like you know it. Think more outwardly inclusive and LGBT friendly. And the performance features a rich diversity of dances such as alegrías, tárantos and bulerías, highlighting traditional rhythmic footwork, curving arm movements and thigh slapping. All the things we love about the Andalucian dance style.
With six bailaores (dancers) gracing the stage, ¡VIVA! pays homage to freedom while defying traditional gender norms of flamenco.
Manuel Liñán is a trailblazing artist who has carved out a unique space in the flamenco world, challenging gender roles and collaborating with leading performers like Olga Pericet.
He has also guest choreographed for esteemed companies such as Ballet Nacional de España, Rafaela Carrasco, and Teresa Nieto. London audiences have previously seen his work, most recently in the 2023 celebratory piece Gala Flamenca. Liñán returns to London with his vibrant, joyous, and expressive show that champions self-expression and individuality.
Inspired by childhood dreams of wearing his female idols’ costumes, Liñán’s ¡VIVA! blends flamenco’s strongest elements with his own creative and comedic queer expression. This unique flamenco drag show was nominated for Outstanding Achievement in Dance at the Olivier Awards 2023. Among his numerous accolades are the first prize for a solo choreography in the Flamenco and Spanish Dance competition in Madrid and the Premio Nacional de Danza in 2017. Speaking about his work, Liñán shared, “When I was little, I locked myself in my room and dressed in my mother’s green skirt. I adorned my hair with flowers, made up my makeup, and danced secretly.
That dance was unthinkable outside those four walls – and today it is unthinkable not to show ¡VIVA! around the world. I’m excited to come back to London and to Sadler’s Wells’ Peacock Theatre for the first time.”
David Fry, Peacock Programmer, expressed his anticipation, saying, “Welcoming ¡VIVA! to Peacock Theatre in October is something I’m very much looking forward to!
A stand-out hit of our Flamenco Festival last year with Gala Flamenca, Manuel Liñán’s work is of the highest standard, and ¡VIVA! is one of the most exciting shows around. I know that our audiences and West End friends will love its vibrant colours and poignant message. ¡VIVA! talks about the pride and courage it takes, sometimes, to wear a flamenco dress. It’s the perfect show for anyone wishing to prolong the summer vibes a little longer, and I personally, can’t wait for it.”
More info and ticket at the Sadler’s Wells website
Where is the Peacock Theatre? Not at the usual centre in Islington! Make sure you check before you go.