Farruquito 2019 North American Tour in Ottawa

World-renowned Spanish Flamenco dancer Farruquito is joined on stage by 11 dancers and musicians in his first Ottawa performance.

Hailed as the greatest Flamenco dancer of the century by The New York Times, Farruquito is heir to the most renowned Gypsy Flamenco dynasty. A leading interpreter of “puro” Gypsy Flamenco—a distinctive tradition that eschews more recent trends—he commands the stage with unparalleled prowess. In the eponymous Farruquito, his NAC debut, he is joined by musicians, dancers and singers in a collaboration that will undoubtedly result in countless curtain calls.

He made his Broadway stage debut at age five alongside his grandfather, the legendary dancer Farruco. He starred in Carlos Saura’s film Flamenco at age eight, and was directing his own shows by age fifteen. In the ensuing years he has garnered worldwide recognition at the highest level as he continues to deepen his personal approach to Flamenco, bringing his family’s dance legacy firmly into the 21st century.

Farruquito’s grandfather and legendary creator of his Flamenco style, El Farruco, told The New York Times that Flamenco “comes in the womb,” taking great pride in his grandson’s talent and the legacy he would leave him.

“With this new performance,” Farruquito said, “I will unveil my most personal side – staying true to traditional roots while also presenting the current state of flamenco, as I see it. I will revive the best moments from past performances while integrating new creations, always maintaining that special energy. With the presence of the bailaoras (female Flamenco dancers), we will capture the pure Gypsy essence present in so many real-life moments with family, at weddings, and other celebrations. This is something that cannot be taught in a studio, it is learned through real life experiences. I will also show improvisation, the origin of flamenco. This performance is an original creation of music, lyrics, and choreography. Song, guitar, percussion –each musician plays a crucial role in this creation as a soloist, not mere accompaniment– every person who sings, plays an instrument, or dances is a protagonist in this show. All of them unite, like the beautiful coloured threads that come together to create the spectacular shawl of flamenco.”

Within moments, he proved that he is one of today’s superlative dance artists… I’ve never seen any Flamenco dancer with such dynamic variety, or one who so connects the macro to the micro… Farruquito dances as if he has every answer at his fingertips… His legs and feet display endless resources… He has surprise, fantasy, glamour, pride and glee.

The New York Times

Watch the promotional video.