In trying to catch up to the New Year, here’s another review of flamenco shows in Atlanta. The Juan Siddi Flamenco Theatre Company performed on Sunday January 13th at the Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech University.
The company was represented by a singer, a guitarist and four female dancers, led by Juan Siddi who choreographed the pieces and designed the costumes himself. The show was opened with a beautiful guitar solo by Chuscales, flowing into an energetic Alegria and ending with a powerful Buleria performed by all the dancers.
As I’m learning to dance the Guajira myself, I was very interested in seeing one performed live by professionals. They did not disappoint! Most Guajira choreographies are danced with a fan (abanico) but Juan’s dancers were using a mantón, a triangular embroidered shawl with very long fringes, they were whipping around their heads and bodies like it was the easiest thing in the world. I don’t think so! Imagine swinging an over-sized shawl around you, keeping it open all the time, then wrapping it around your body in one swift move without getting tangled or dropping the scarf. This is a piece of flamenco art that can only be mastered with lots of training. I absolutely loved it!
After the intermission the show continued with a Fandango de Huelva danced in bata de cola (dress with long, ruffled trains) using castanets to accentuate traditional flamenco music. Next was an emotional Solea, performed by Juan Siddi, dressed in a beautiful Toreador’s jacket. This was the masterpiece of the show and the audience absolutely loved his intricate escobilla (footwork) at the end of his performance.
The show ended with a unique but contemporary flamenco piece danced by the entire company and after he curtain call the audience left with a smile on their face. Watching a professional flamenco production was a great way for me to start the year!
Enjoy this video of Juan Siddi Flamenco Theatre Company:
[youtube xFHTR7C_l6Q]
