We’ve seen the opera Carmen and, perhaps, some movies that featured the dance…but oh, to see it being performed by real, live Spaniards!! Beautiful women, raven-black hair pulled tightly back, slender handsome men in short jackets and tapered trousers. That’s an experience that will have you shouting “Ole !” even before the last strums of the guitar or click of the castanet.
So, you’re going to be in Spain and know you’re going to see a Flamenco show as part of your tour activity or perhaps you’ve heard of Flamenco Tablaos (Flamenco bars) where more-or-less authentic shows are held, and you’re determined to attend one evening. Don’t hesitate! This is an experience that fairly demands your attendance.
Don’t even think about missing the opportunity, especially if you’re in the Andalusia region (i.e. Seville). The cost will be minimal as compared to the thrill and the memories (not to dismiss the pictures you may be able to take). But take care: Flamenco has been around for centuries and has become a highly packaged tourist attraction, best to consult the concierge at your hotel or your tour director. Realize that these recommendations may be tinged with a little “baksheesh”, but they will be safe and entertaining. Perhaps you should consult the Internet and read the reviews – there are plenty – about various venues.
Understanding the history of an event adds to your enjoyment, so here goes: legend has us believing that the Gypsies of Spain originated the steps and music, but we must go back to Moorish times to find the roots. The Moors occupied the Iberian peninsula for over seven centuries, accounting for the traces of Arab, as well as Jewish and Christian influences.
Andalusia is considered to be the birthplace, but it wasn’t until the 18th century is there any reference to the dance by name. The historic accompaniment was hand clapping (the castanets were added many years later to simulate the sound), but now we appreciate the wonderful addition of guitars.
In the region around Cadiz, flamenco schools were created, leading to what is considered the “golden age” of flamenco, with cafes and restaurants featuring brilliant practitioners of the art. The passion and seductiveness of the fantastic costumes is Andalusian and the posturing can be traced to the stance and attitudes of the dashing matadors of the bull ring.
Shops and souvenir vendors will have castanets to sell and beautiful dolls in polka dot dresses…or, if you want to really stand out when you get back to your hometown, you will find merchants selling those polka dot or flaming red dresses with fabulous embroidered shawls.
A wonderful enlightening flamenco museum is in Madrid, but nothing will haunt your memory like that night you saw and heard authentic flamenco in Spain!
Flamenco is one of Spain’s most passionate cultural expressions. Our advisors’ Barcelona Must-See Sites guide captures Spain’s incredible cultural heritage across the country’s most vibrant cities.
