Flamencura @ Sadler’s Wells Review

Flamencura shouldn‘t be viewed on a stage in London. It should be experienced somewhere in the Andelusian mointains, with the beat echoing off the hills, the smell of nature mixing with man and the concentration shared between the audience and performers. Luckily we do not need to travel south to see this show, they have brought it here to London and we are lucky that they have.

The show consists of ten pieces under the watchful string of flamenco guitarist Paco Peña and his ensemble of instrumentalists and vocalist, most notably Inmaculada Rivero and special guest Vimala Rowe who brings a heavy jazz, soulful sound to her segments.

Angel Muñoz, Charo Espino and Carmen “La Talegona” are different but compliment each other as dancers. Muñoz’s dancing feels fiery, as if an explosion is about to go off, Espino‘s passionate dancing seems capable of carrying on far longer than any music could and “La Talegona’s” poised power could bring the band to a stop any time she so desires. The pieces are mostly solo, although there is some interaction, seemingly of a competitive nature.

For such a grand stage, the production is minimal. In fact, it consists of a few chairs, a veil and the instruments. Its bareness allows the performers to shine, be it the musicians or dancers, it could easily be taking place in some mountain pub or festival.

Passion and desire are the underlying feelings of this show. There is a darkness at the troubled heart of it. Take a deep breath and let that passion wash over you, artists at the height of confidence sharing their lifelong passion in the purest way possible. 4/5

Review written by Ingimar Sverrisson.

Flamencura is currently showing at Sadler’s Wells until Sunday 28th June. For more information on the production, visit here…

Written by Theatrefullstop