Reviews

Suena Flamenco

Flamenco Women Productions Presents SUENA FLAMENCO

Prepare to be kept on the edge of your seat throughout the entirety of Suena Flamenco! A brilliant production capturing every essence of flamenco; contrasting the high energy, staccato foot stamping of the dancers with the tranquillity of the interspersed musical interludes... this show has it all!

I was utterly captivated as soon as I entered the charmingly intimate New Theatre with its central drop stage allowing the audience to really get in on the action! The anticipation grew as the lights dimmed, the audience fell silent and only the crisp “click” of the dancer’s heels could be heard as they positioned themselves on stage. Suddenly the backdrop lit up with a brilliant golden yellow, revealing 5 silhouettes swirling and gyrating to a gentle rhythmic handclap.

Ana Otero and Daniela Carelli have utilised their production company Flamenco Women Productions to showcase the remarkable talent of their dancers and musicians. Suena Flamenco’s musical interludes between dances allowed the audience to really reflect on what they had seen and undistractedly enjoy the incredible talent of the musicians. The music was supplied by the talents of 2 guitarists, 2 singers, a percussionist and a cellist who performed with flair and vivacity. An intense depth of rhythm was created by every performer in the show. From the harsh rapping of fingers on the wooden drum, the plucking of the cello’s strings, foot stamping and clapping, the end combination culminated in a passionate, polyrhythmic feast for the senses.

The solo performances given by both Otero and Carelli were breathtaking. Carelli astonished the audience with her incredible stamina as she rapidly struck the floor with her rigorous footwork, her upper body showing no effects of her labour as her hands spiralled fluidly with the upmost poise and professionalism. Otero’s fierce execution of the steps was accentuated by the passion in her face as she utilized the stage, interacting with the musicians and creating a real unity within the group. The performance of dancer Raquel Llorente was also unforgettable as she commanded the stage, stepping out proudly holding castanets. She had a brilliant sense of pause which created a definite phrasing to her movements, complimenting the musicians beautifully.

The costumes worn further immersed the audience into the brilliant culture surrounding flamenco dancing. Never without a flower in their hair, the dancers proudly embraced their femininity. Traditional reds, blacks and yellows were prominent however the finale involved all five dancers wearing flowing pastel dresses, indicating the progression of flamenco into today’s more contemporary style.

Suena Flamenco is truly an eye opening experience of the necessity to embrace flamenco in Australia. The production was seamlessly put together and all involved performed with incredible passion, professionalism and an evident love for what they are doing. With never a dull moment, this high energy production epitomises the spontaneity which makes this style so enthralling. After receiving a standing ovation from their adoring audience, the performers bowed modestly, smiling at one another with a real sense of team work and partnership. Suena Flamenco definitely portrays the hard work gone into its production and deserves every commendation for this!