Whoever is interested in Flamenco and lives in Chicago has heard of The Ensemble Espanol Spanish Dance Theater. For 35 years, this company of forty dancers, singers, and musicians led by artistic Director Dame Libby Komaiko, has been presenting and promoting Spanish dance and culture in all its forms. To celebrate this big accomplishment, the company is presenting a series of “Flamenco Passion” gala performances that will take place at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, IL 60077. Live music for “Flamenco Passion”gala performances will be performed by guest musicians Manuel Palacín (Flamenco singer, National Ballet of Spain, Madrid); Paco Fonta (Flamenco singer and guitarist, Jáen/Miami) and Antonio Gabarri Jiménez (Flamenco guitarist, Madrid). Performances are Friday, June 24 and Saturday June 25 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 26 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $26-$46. Free parking is available. .On Saturday, June 25 there will be a special “Meet the Artists” benefit reception immediately following the 7:30 p.m. performance in the lobby of the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. The reception will provide an opportunity to meet and greet Dame Libby Komaiko, Irma Suarez Ruiz, company dancers and guest artists. Spanish tapas by Café Marbella will be served along with wine, music & silent auction. Tickets are $60 and include entrance to the “Flamenco Passion” Saturday, 7:30 p.m. concert. For tickets or more information call 847-673-6300 or visit northshorecenter.org
Here is a sample of what you will see at this show. This style of Flamenco is called “Alegrias“, one of my favorite styles, specially when it is danced with the Bata de Cola. Ole!
Chicago Urbanite 