During my travels in Spain and Portugal, I was fortunate to witness two Flamenco dance shows—one at a local inn in Granada and another at a performance center in Seville.
Personally, I found the experience at the local inn more captivating, perhaps because of the close proximity and the dancers' maturity. Their age and seasoned expertise brought a unique passion to their performance. As they danced, I could sense a profound connection to life, expressed through the rhythmic movements. If you were to ask me about a must-not-miss unique experience while traveling in Spain, Flamenco dance would undoubtedly top my list. It's an experience that deserves a place on your itinerary, perhaps more than once, as it did for me.
Flamenco dance has its origins in Andalusia, dating back to the VIII to XV centuries, a period when Spain was under Arab rule. During this time, the music and musical instruments underwent modifications and adaptations by Christians, Jews, and later, the gypsies. This fusion resulted in a hybrid music form distinct from its original influences.
Between 1765 and 1860, the first Flamenco schools emerged in Cadiz, Jerez de la Frontera, and Triana (Seville). It was during this period that Flamenco dance began to establish itself in ballrooms. Early Flamenco was predominantly vocal, accompanied only by rhythmic clapping of hands, known as "toque de palmas." It took dedicated composers like Julián Arcas to introduce guitar playing to Flamenco.
In its Golden Age (1869-1910), Flamenco further evolved in the numerous music cafés (cafés cantantes) of the era, solidifying into its definitive form. It was during this period that the more profound forms expressing deep emotions, known as "cante jondo," originated. Flamenco dance reached its pinnacle, becoming the main attraction for the audiences of those cafés cantantes.
An Authentic Flamenco Dance Experience
Picture yourself in a traditional night inn, sipping a drink, and watching a performance unfold on stage. This YouTube video closely mirrors what I witnessed during my trip, albeit with different real-life characters. Yet, they share a commonality – the unique essence of Flamenco dance. As I observed their dance movements, it became apparent that this art form requires a certain level of maturity. While younger and visually appealing women may exude a sense of allure, the truly impressive and nuanced moves seem to come with age.
Naked Flamenco
Following youtube provide a chance to see in it pure form, without dress how the dance body movement.