On November 16, the Teatro Flamenco Madrid commemorated the International Flamenco Day with an innovative proposal, Emotions Special Symphonic. This performance, created in collaboration with the only Flamenco Orchestra in the world, offered an unprecedented fusion between traditional flamenco and symphonic music, combining guitar, singing and dance with violins and cello.
The event, which took place within the framework of the celebration of this day recognized by UNESCO since 2010 as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, brought together the theaters of the Artesred group on two consecutive days: Teatro Flamenco Madrid and Teatro Flamenco Sevilla. In both cities, the main casts of the shows Passion y Emotions They joined the Flamenco Orchestra under the direction of José Galvañ and Gracia del Saz, achieving an artistic experience that combined tradition and modernity.
In addition to this special function, Teatro Flamenco Madrid reaffirmed its commitment to the preservation of flamenco by collaborating with the Fortea Professional Dance Conservatory. During this event, students and teachers paid tribute to this art, with the presence of dancer María Pagés as godmother of the conservatory’s eighth class.
Flamenco Orchestra and its innovator Complaint between ropes
The Flamenco Orchestra, directed by Gracia del Saz, is a unique project born in 2019 that integrates string instruments into flamenco. Your show Complaint between ropes It premiered in 2023 and has consolidated its presence on stage thanks to an agreement with Artesred, establishing the group’s theaters as its official headquarters. Throughout the 2024-25 season, the orchestra will continue offering individual performances in Madrid, Seville and Granada, as part of the Flamenco Cycles.
What inspired María Pagés to become involved with the Fortea Professional Dance Conservatory?
Guest 1: María Pagés, an acclaimed flamenco dancer and godmother of the Fortea Professional Dance Conservatory
Editor: It’s an honor to have you here today, María. Firstly, can you tell us what it means for you to participate in the International Flamenco Day celebrations?
Guest 1: For me, participating in the International Flamenco Day celebrations is a great honor and responsibility. Flamenco is not only an art form that I love but also part of my heritage. It represents the rich cultural history of my country, Spain, and to be able to contribute to its preservation and promotion is a privilege.
Editor: Speaking of preservation, can you tell us about your involvement with the Fortea Professional Dance Conservatory? What led you to involve yourself in this initiative?
Guest 1: The Fortea Professional Dance Conservatory is doing important work in preserving and promoting flamenco as an art form. I believe that it is crucial to invest in the next generation of artists and to provide them with a solid foundation in the traditional techniques and values of flamenco. My involvement as godmother of the conservatory’s eighth class is an extension of my commitment to this cause. I wanted to share my knowledge and experience with the students and help them grow as artists.
Editor: That’s really inspiring. Now, let’s shift our focus to the Emotions Special Symphonic event. Can you tell us more about the collaboration between Teatro Flamenco Madrid and the Flamenco Orchestra?
Guest 1: The partnership between Teatro Flamenco Madrid and the Flamenco Orchestra is truly innovative. Combining traditional flamenco with symphonic music creates a new dimension to the art form, drawing in audiences who might not otherwise be exposed to it. It allows us to showcase flamenco’s versatility and adaptability while still maintaining its authenticity.
Editor: Absolutely. And what about the unique fusion between guitar, singing, dance, and strings? How did this come about, and what challenges did it present?
Guest 1: The idea for the fusion was born out of a desire to push the boundaries of flamenco and explore its possibilities. The challenge
