In its 10th edition “Duende Flamenco Festival” explores the multi-disciplinary nature of flamenco with performances like “Breath,” “Pellizco,” “Lola! Gitanos de Jerez,” and “Kintsugi,” showcasing cross-cultural themes, personal journeys, and the healing power of art.

The 10th edition of Duende explores an art form that emerged in Al Andalus and is influenced by the 800 years of Muslim rule in Iberia. This year the focus is on the Roma communities and families where flamenco began and is preserved.

Breath

• On Thursday, November 14 at 8 pm. Buy tickets.
• With Farnaz Ohadi and Antonio Najarro.

In this cross-cultural performance by Sevilla-based Iranian-Canadian artist Farnaz Ohadi sings in Farsi and recites poetry by Hafez and Rumi, joined by dancer Antonio Najarro.

Breath is a Persian-flamenco music and dance performance that explores love’s complex emotions — ecstasy, nostalgia, doubt, and healing. Beneath its Farsi lyricism and flamenco rhythms lies a loving tribute to Iran’s history since the revolution of 1979. The performance emphasizes self-love as the foundation for making better choices, fostering a love for others, and guiding a collective future.

Pellizco

• On Saturday, November 16 at 8 pm. Buy tickets.
• With Iván Vargas and Nazaret Reyes.

A new production by Granadino dancer and choreographer Iván Vargas, Pellizco features a series of interconnected scenes that reflect the three most fundamental stages of his life and artistic career.

The first scene captures his return to the stage after the pandemic and his reconnection with flamenco, a necessity and a way of life for Vargas. After months of uncertainty, he contemplates the ways in which he can bring Duende’s heartbeat back to the stage through a solemn and sombre palo known as caña.

In the second scene, titled Origen (Origin), Vargas and his guest artist reminisce about their roots and the lands that nurtured them — the two emblematic Andalusian cities of Sevilla and Granada.

In the third and final scene,Vargas pays tribute by showcasing the choreographies and music of three of Granada’s greatest artists, maestros, and staples of flamenco: Juan Andrés Maya, Manolete, and Enrique Morente.

Lola! Gitanos de Jerez

• On Friday, November 15 at 8:30 pm. Buy tickets.
• With Soraya Clavijo, Saray García, Abel Harana, Ana de los Reyes, Manuel Moneo Carrasco and Agustín de la Fuente.

Mario Gonzalez was invited to program this evening’s performance of Lola! Gitanos de Jerez, which features six renowned artists from the heart of Jerez de la Frontera. Gonzalez is the owner and cultural manager of La Guarida del Angel, a 16th-century palace located in the heart of Jerez’s flamenco-rich San Miguel neighbourhood.

With 25 years of rich history, this venue has transformed from an ancient synagogue, convent, and orphanage into a vibrant concert hall. Mario Gonzalez founded the Jerez Off Festival, which features hundreds of flamenco performances and recitals that highlight Jerez’s flamenco schools. The venue also hosts conferences that provide insights into flamenco art and culture.

Kintsugi: Flamenco and Healing featuring Farruquito

• On Sunday, November 17 at 7:30 pm. Buy tickets.
• At Bluma Appel Theatre, Toronto Centre for the Arts, 27 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1B4.
• With Farruquito.

Commissioned by the Aga Khan Museum for the 2024 Duende Flamenco Festival, Kintsugi is based on the Japanese philosophy that teaches us that in life we can turn adversity into something beautiful and resilient. Kintsugi shows us that in time, we can heal from our wounds, embrace our imperfections, and become stronger. It reminds us that no matter our difficulties, we can find a way to reframe and find meaning in life.

The renewal and reimagining of life will be showcased in this world-premiere performance, viewed through the lens of Kintsugi. Directed by Ángel Rojas and in collaboration with audio-visual artist Victor Tomé, this performance will offer a stunning visual experience that complements the powerful live “Gitano” artistry of Farruquito and his flamenco musicians.