National Geographic Music (National Geographic)

The annual New York Flamenco Festival enters its ninth year with a powerhouse lineup of music and dance direct from Spain. Produced by New York's venerable World Music Institute. this year's festival celebrates the culture of Andalucia with seven nights of flamenco music and dance with four different artists and dance companies.

February 13th: Arcángel & Dorantes with dancer Rosario Toledo
This captivating concert of vocals, piano and dance features award-winning artists from the prestigious Bienal de Flamenco de Sevilla. Arcángel, a commanding and impassioned vocalist, belongs to the new generation of cante flamenco maestros. Dorantes, an extraordinary pianist from a famous flamenco family, is a prominent new name in flamenco piano who incorporates elements of jazz, classical and world music in his innovative works. This program marks Dorantes' first New York appearance. The artists are joined by guest dancer Rosario Toledo.

February 14th & Feb 15th: Isabel Bayón Company with guest vocalist Terremoto (pictured)
Dancer/choreographer Isabel Bayón, one of the main representatives of the Sevilla school of flamenco, is known for her elegant and consummate performances. She has worked with many of the leading figures and ensembles in dance, including Israel Galván, Javier Barón, Mario Maya, Manolo Marin, Miguel Poveda, the National Ballet of Spain, and the Andalusian Dance Company. Her program, La puerta abierta (The Open Door) captures the essence and soul of flamenco and won the Giraldillo award for the best show at Seville's Bienal de Flamenco 2006. Terremoto, son of the legendary Terremoto de Jerez and a major figure in cante flamenco, appears as special guest artist.

February 19th & 20th: Antonio Gades Company: Carmen
The acclaimed Antonio Gades Company, established to perform the great dancer/choreographer's masterpieces, will present a powerful re-staging of Gades' classic Carmen. The show, which began life as Carlos Saura's award-winning film, is touring around the world in commemoration of its 25th anniversary. Carmen stars the earthy and sensuous Stella Arauzo, who appeared in many of Gades' productions, and the formidable Adrian Galia, who has worked with many celebrated companies and artists, including the National Ballet of Spain, Cristina Hoyos, and Enrique Morente.

February 21st & 22nd: Los Farruco
Los Farruco - the first family of flamenco dance - is a famous flamenco dynasty known for its electrifying performances of Spanish Gypsy art. Conceived and directed by Farruquito, grandson of the legendary patriarch El Farruco, this program features La Farruca, daughter of El Farruco, noted for her passionate dancing; her son, Farruco, a rising star in flamenco acknowledged for his remarkable footwork; La Faraona, dubbed "the mother of buleria" by her father El Farruco; Barullo, grandson of El Farruco, who maintains the elegance of traditional flamenco dance; two guitarists; and three singers.

For more information, including ticketing and showtimes please consult the World Music Institute's website.