Hot Moves
Flamenco Festival
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Fans of flamenco are flocking to Lisner Auditorium for the third annual Flamenco Festival, sure to quench a thirst for the intensely rhythmic and passionate styles of dance and music that originated with Spain’s Andalusian Gypsies.
On the heels of performances by Ballet Flamenco Sara Baras earlier this week, the festival continues this weekend with Por Derecho, showcasing the traditional “flamenco puro” style of Spain’s young dance phenomenon Farruquito and the electrifying Juana Amaya, hailed as one of the most important dancers of her generation.
Two additional dancers and six musicians will accompany Farruquito (pictured) and Amaya in Por Derecho, to be performed at 8 p.m. on Friday, January 31, and Saturday, February 1.
The festival will conclude with a performance by world-renowned, multiple Grammy-winning flamenco guitarist Tomatito on Friday, February 7 at 8 p.m. Joining him in this rare appearance are dancer José Fernandez, singer el Potito, and Tomatito’s musical ensemble — all embodying an affinity for the Gypsy spirit.
Lisner Auditorium director Rosanna Ruscetti chalks up the growing success of the annual festival to flamenco aficionados who’ve been eager to introduce friends to the art form, as well as Lisner’s core, diverse audience that’s proven itself willing to “try anything” when it comes to the auditorium’s often less-traditional programming.
“Flamenco is so passionate and so immediate,” Ruscetti adds, “that new audiences are able to grasp it in a very powerful way.”
Lisner Auditorium is located at 730 21st Street NW on the campus of The George Washington University. Tickets for Flamenco Festival performances range from $25 to $50. Call 301-808-6900. Visit www.lisner.org.
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