Tag: FLamenco

For excellent Flamenco, look to Sadler’s Wells

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Step into a world where tradition meets innovation, where old blends seamlessly with new to create something entirely original and electrifying. At Sadler’s Wells, the iconic Paco Peña, accompanied by his talented Paco Peña Dance Company, presents Solera – a captivating production that breathes new life into the timeless art of flamenco. As the evening unfolds, prepare to be mesmerised by a fusion of exceptional music, dance, and passion that transcends boundaries and embodies the essence of human emotions in all their raw beauty. The show opens with a symphony of everyday sounds that seamlessly transform into a vibrant celebration of the human spirit. Take away the traditional red Flamenco dress and imagine you’re in a studio with friends who are just chilling and decide to have a dance. They chat in-between sets, sip water, play on their phones – all normal every day stuff – that plays an insightful and very real backdrop to the magic unfolding in the foreground. From the rhythmic beats of percussionist Julio Alcocer to the exquisite melodies woven by guitars and voices, every moment is a testament to the skill and artistry of the performers. Directed with precision by Jude Kelly CBE, Solera masterfully transitions from the mundane to the magical, immersing the audience in a world of colour, light, and drama that is nothing short of spellbinding. In the second act, the stage comes alive with a spectacle of performance, accentuated by striking costumes and evocative lighting that elevate the talents of the company to new heights. Dancers… Read More

Flamenco Festival 2024 at Sadler’s Wells

Flamenco dancer

The Flamenco Festival is set to make a triumphant return to Sadler’s Wells this summer for its 19th edition, spanning from Tuesday 4 to Saturday 15 June. This eagerly anticipated event promises an electrifying showcase of flamenco artistry, featuring seven UK premieres and captivating performances from acclaimed flamenco luminaries. The festival’s program will be a vibrant fusion of dance performances and concerts, delivering a compelling and unforgettable experience for all attendees. The festival kicks off with a mesmerizing performance by Rocío Molina in Al Fondo Riela on Tuesday 4 June. Molina, known for her innovative approach and subversion of flamenco traditions, presents a piece that revolves around reflection and the loss of reality, encapsulated by the original flamenco trio of dance, song, and guitar. Accompanied by two contrasting guitarists, Oscar Lago and Yerai Cortés, Molina’s performance promises to be a captivating exploration of traditional flamenco combined with innovative flair. Returning to the festival after her remarkable appearance in 2019, Rocío Molina has been recognized for her exceptional talent, winning the Critics’ Circle National Dance Award for outstanding female performance and being awarded the prestigious Silver Lion at the Venice Biennale in 2022. The festival continues to dazzle with a concert by the renowned flamenco guitarist Vicente Amigo on Wednesday 5 June. Amigo, celebrated as one of the most accomplished flamenco guitarists of his generation and a Latin Grammy Award-winner, will present a concert that seamlessly blends classical and nuevo flamenco, incorporating elements of jazz, folk, and South American rhythms while preserving the essence of flamenco…. Read More

Love Spanish dance? Try the Flamenco Festival at Sadler’s Wells

Flamenco dancer

vibrant and passionate art of flamenco is currently taking centre stage at the iconic Sadler’s Wells theatre in London. The Flamenco Festival 2023, running from 15 July to 29 July, brings together a showcase of the world’s greatest flamenco talent in an electrifying celebration of this timeless Spanish tradition. The festival features an impressive line-up of international artists, including renowned dancer and choreographer, Maria Pages, who presents her latest work, “An Ode to Time”. This captivating performance is a reflection on the human experience of time and the inevitable passage of life, with flamenco music and dance expertly woven into the fabric of this deeply moving piece. Other highlights of the festival include the Gala Flamenca, featuring an all-male cast of contemporary flamenco mavericks, Manuel Linan and Alfonso Losa, whose high-energy performances showcase the evolution of this dynamic art form. But flamenco isn’t just about the performers – it’s an immersive cultural experience that embraces the soul of Spain and its people. From the ringing sound of guitar strings to the raw, impassioned wail of the cantaor (singer), the spirit of flamenco is infectious and impossible to resist. As well as the performances, the festival offers a range of workshops where participants can learn and explore the choreographic style of flamenco in greater depth. These sessions provide a unique opportunity to experience the passion and energy of the dance first-hand, under the guidance of experienced instructors. With its thrilling rhythms, intricate footwork, and emotive storytelling, flamenco is an art form that captivates and enchants audiences… Read More