Flamenco

Flamenco is the passionate art of Andalusia, a fusion of fierce, stamping dance, raw and mournful song, and driving guitar born among the Roma and folk of the Spanish south. Recognised by UNESCO, it is not a polished floor show but an expression of deep emotion, its power best felt live and close in an intimate tablao or peña in Seville, Granada or Jerez.

Highlights

• The dance - the fierce footwork, turns and proud posture of the bailaor.
• The song - the raw, mournful cante that is the soul of flamenco.
• The guitar - the driving, intricate playing that carries it.
• The tablao - the intimate venue where it is best experienced live.

When to go

Year-round; an evening show in Andalusia. The intimate tablaos and peñas of Seville, Granada and Jerez give a truer experience than the big tourist dinner-shows. Jerez holds a famous festival.

Good to know

Big tourist dinner-shows can feel diluted; a smaller tablao or a peña gives the raw, close experience. It is an art of emotion rather than spectacle, which surprises those expecting a polished production. Quality and authenticity vary a lot, so choose the venue carefully.

Nearby

Seville, Granada and Jerez are its heartlands; the whole of Andalusia is steeped in it.