Flamenco Vivo's performance at HACC will feature a new creation, Bailes de Ida y Vuelta, which is reflective of the dance form's multi-cultural roots. Ida y Vuelta may be literally translated as "round-trip" and Bailes de Ida y Vuelta explores the extraordinary journey of how traditional flamenco sounds and styles have been modified by music from the "New World."
Centuries of continued travel and cultural exchange between Spain and Latin America have brought changes to the rhythm, movement, costume and music of flamenco. A tightly connected series of dances shows the transition of flamenco from the elegant and poised dance of the early 1900's to today's bold and energetic Latino-influenced style that combines percussive flamenco rhythms with salsa movements.
Based in New York City, the company was originally founded in 1983 as the Spanish Dance Arts Company by Carlota Santana and Roberto Lorca. Their vision was to use flamenco not only as an art form but as a way to break down cultural barriers. Carlota has been designated the "keeper of Flamenco" by Dance Magazine in recognition of her commitment to creating new works and developing young artists and choreographers.
Ms. Santana began her career with the María Alba Company and performed as a soloist with José Molina, Roberto Cartagena, and Rosario Galán. In Spain, she performed at the Tablao Arcos de Cuchilleros and worked with such masters as Carmen Mora, Paco Fernández, and Manuela Carrasco.
Flamenco Vivo tours extensively with 6-12 dancers and musicians and has performed to sold-out houses at theatres in major cities across the country including the Joyce Theater, Lincoln Center, the Macomb Center and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.
Flamenco is considered worldwide to be one of the richest expressions of folklore. Originally from Andalusia, the southern region of Spain, it developed from the interaction of the many cultures that inhabited this region for centuries. Experiencing a Flamenco Vivo performance, the audience can clearly see how many ethnic influences over the years have left their mark on this unique and powerful form.
Members of Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana will lead a free dance class for senior citizens (age 55+, active, independent) at the Rutherford House on 3300 Parkview Lane, Harrisburg from 2 to 3 p.m. This class is open to the public. Class size is limited. Please pre-register by calling 564-5682.
Members of the regional group "Cocina Flamenca" featuring HACC Theatre Technical Director Lori Friedlander and guitarist Paco de Nada, will give a free pre-performance lecture at 7 p.m. which will explore the history and rhythms of flamenco and demonstrate flamenco technique. Lori and Paco have been performing together since the early 1980's. Cocina Flamenca can be seen regularly at Mangia Qui restaurant in Harrisburg.
Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana will perform at the RLAC theatre on Friday, October 22 at 8pm.Tickets are $27 adults / $22 students/senior citizens. Box Office phone 717-231-ROSE (7673).