Esmerelda Enrique

Dance Style
Flamenco

Workshop Description
Flamenco is one of the most popular forms of Spanish dance. It blends the influences of Arabic, Jewish and Gypsy musical traditions with the traditions of Andalusia, the province in southern Spain. With its percussive footwork and graceful arm and hand movements, flamenco is an art form that allows both performer and audience to experience dances of exquisite beauty and passion. This class will introduce and explore the basic techniques of footwork, arm and hand movements, handclapping, rhythms, counter-rhythms, syncopations and cantes (song forms). A short movement sequence will be learned. Leather soled shoes must be worn for this class.

Artist Bio
One of the most celebrated Flamenco dance artists in Canada. Lauded internationally as a choreographer and teacher, three-time Dora Mavor Moore Award nominee, Ms. Enrique is the founder of the Academy of Spanish Dance and the Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company. Esmeralda grew up in the flamenco tradition and her career began at the young age of fourteen as she toured North America with the famous company of José Greco. In 1982 Ms. Enrique immigrated to Toronto and founded the Academy of Spanish Dance and the Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company, renown for its innovation, versatility and artistic excellence. She reveals in her work a total mastery and love of the art. The 2007/2008 season marks the 25th anniversary of the Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company’s establishment in Canada. Undoubtedly Esmeralda’s spirit and energy over the last twenty-five years have helped make flamenco a vibrant, driving force on the Canadian dance landscape.

Artist Website
www.flamencos.net