Chicago will once again become a vibrant hub for Spanish dance as Ensemble Español, the renowned dance company in residence at Northeastern Illinois University, proudly presents its 48th American Spanish Dance and Music Festival. Scheduled from June 7-15, 2024, this year’s “Flamenco Passion” festival promises an unforgettable exploration of dance en espanol, showcasing both traditional and innovative performances.
Executive Director and Associate Artistic Director Jorge Perez emphasizes the heart of the festival: “Every ‘Flamenco Passion’ festival performance is meant to entertain and highlight the timeless yet ever-evolving art that is Flamenco as performed by Chicago’s premiere Spanish dance company, Ensemble Español.” Audiences are invited to immerse themselves in the captivating rhythms and movements that define dance en espanol.
This year’s festival is particularly exciting, featuring a series of world premiere performances that push the boundaries of Spanish dance. Among the highlights is “Viejos Aires,” a flamenco tango reimagined for Ensemble Español by the acclaimed Antonio Najarro. Najarro, an award-winning choreographer and former artistic director of the National Ballet of Spain, also lent his talents to Disney’s movie “Wish,” bringing a touch of Hollywood magic to the festival’s dance en espanol repertoire.
Adding to the lineup of premieres are “Resiliencia” and “El Bolero de Puerta de Tierra,” both choreographed by Raquel Gomez, a former principal dancer and rehearsal director of the National Ballet of Spain. The festival also embraces international influences with “Compas de Seda,” a Cuban-infused piece by Flamenco superstar La Lupi, set to original music by Curro de Maria. Completing the world premieres is “Solea” by Afro/British Flamenco dancer, practitioner, and educator Yinka Esa Graves, demonstrating the diverse and evolving nature of dance en espanol.
Artistic Director Irma Suárez Ruiz highlights Ensemble Español’s commitment to innovation and collaboration: “We pride ourselves in our record of collaborating with some of the most exciting voices in Flamenco, Escuela Bolera, Classical and Folkloric genres as we maintain our important role as active participants in the continued evolution of these exciting music and dance forms.” This dedication ensures that the festival offers a rich and dynamic experience of dance en espanol.
Founded in 1976 by Northeastern alumna Dame Libby Komaiko, Ensemble Español continues its vital mission under the leadership of Ruiz and Perez. The company is dedicated to the preservation, presentation, and promotion of Spanish dance and culture, emphasizing its profound influence on Latin American art and dance. Through both traditional and contemporary performances, Ensemble Español keeps the spirit of dance en espanol alive and thriving. Don’t miss the 48th American Spanish Dance and Music Festival – a true celebration of dance en espanol in Chicago.
