Ensemble Español - Flamenco Passion

8 Act 1 Sur (South) American Spanish Dance and Music Festival, choreographer and instructor, Raquel Gomez created this work in 2015 that reaches back to the traditions of the Escuela Bolera (classical Spanish style) from the 18th Century, as it simultaneously embraces contemporary Flamenco music. Set to acclaimed composer David Peña Dorantes’ and percussionist Javier Saume-Mazzei, Sur, or Gomez’ vision crafts a work that joins the bright and classical movements of the Escuela Bolera to the lively, passionate jazzy rhythms of Dorantes’ Flamenco composition, and establishing the next stage of these two styles in our shared artistic experience. The importance of this endeavor is best expressed by Gomez, who states: “ Sur proves…that something with so much tradition and such deep cultural roots…can be current and keep its deepest history.” Raquel Gomez Choreographer and Costume Designer (2015): Raquel Gomez, Guest Artist Music: David Dorantes Percussionist: Javier Saume-Mazzei Costume Production: Luz Creations Lighting Designer: Original concept by Nathan Tomlinson Reimagined lighting design in 2023 by Dustin L. Derry La Vida Breve (The Brief Life) Isaac premiered this work in 2022 with the New World Symphony of Miami Choreography & Dancer (2022): Isaac Tovar, Guest Artist Music: Manuel DeFalla Costume Design: Ubaldo Fantasia Suite Regional Tribute to Juanjo Linares- September 6, 1933 -November 15, 2009. Maestro Juanjo created twenty five works for the full company from 1984 through 2000. As Spain’s foremost authority on folklore, Juanjo’s detail to the style, customs and celebration of the people of each region in Spain made him the legendary master on this art form. Tonight the Ensemble Español honors his legacy by presenting excerpts from the regions of Galicia, Extremadura and Valencia. Irma Suarez Ruiz and Jorge Pérez, have both performed and been a part of Juanjo’s works with the Ensemble Español since his first residency to Chicago in 1984. 1.) Extremeño from Extremadura Dancers: Abigail Mosquera, Samantha Micklewright, Luis Beltran 2.) Embrujada from Galicia Dancers: Nalanie Molina, Katrina Bartels 3.) Costumbres Valenciana from Valencia Dancers: Irene Sivianes, Juan Carlos Castellon 4.) Muñeiras Danza de Galicia Dancers: Youth Company Dancers & Company Choreography (1984-2000): Juanjo Linares Muneiras Danza de Galicia: Choreography (2007): Paloma Gomez & Crsitian Lozano Music: Traditional; Fernando Arias, Milladoiro, M. Padilla, Ginet, Guidi & Caserio Costume Design: Juanjo Linares, Nana Lorca Mediterráneo (Alegrias) World Premiere Choreography & Dancer: Irene “La Chiqui” Lozano , Guest Artist Costume Design: Enrique Vicent Lighting Design: Irene “La Chiqui” Lozano, Dustin Derry Rendición Rendición is a Flamenco contemporary drama depicting the yearnings, passions, and need for surrender in everlasting love. Choreographer and Costume Design (2013): Irma Suarez Ruiz, Artistic Director Music: David Peña Dorante Costume Production: Luz Creations Lighting Design: Original concept by Margaret Nelson Reimagined lighting and new project design in 2023 by Dustin L. Derry Dancers: Company