Who doesn’t get overwhelmed by the Spanish temperament, and one of most passionate dance know to the world; Flamenco. It was last year during the summer when I went travelling to the south of Spain and made a visit to Seville where I saw for the first time Flamenco danced by true professionals. It is debated to what place may actually call themselves the birthplace of Flamenco, between Seville or Jerez. One thing is certain however, the roots originate from western Adalucia.
Flamenco as a wide range of styles and influenced by many music styles over the years. While some modern ones are: “Flamenco-Fusion” and “Flamenco Rock”, I will always prefer some of the traditional like: Alegrías, Bulerías, Malagueña and Sevillanas.
I decided to see my first flamenco show in the Tablao (Location where you can see a professional and choreographed flamenco shows) in El Arenal. The locations is a beautiful 17th century building, renovated, cozy, and a perfect place to enjoy the show while you are having dinner and/or drinks. I recommend it to everyone, as it will always be a great first impression.
Although the Flamenco history can be traced back hundreds of years, one thing is certain about its original form. The first form of Flamenco was only the voice, a primitive cry or chant to be accompanied by a rhythm that was beaten on the floor by a wooden staff or cane. Probably the oldest style knows is the Toña, what represent a family song. Later the flamenco can be made up in four elements: Voice, Dance, Guitar and the Jaleo which is hard to translate but it sort of means “hell raising”. With this is refered to the intense handclapping, foot stomping and the shouts during the dance. While I was watching the show everyone in the audience got really into it and began clapping along on the beat of the palmeros ( the professional that were clapping during the dance), and truly creates an amazing ambience and spectacle. One thing is for sure, I have to go back once to that wonderful and passionate place.
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