Flamenco: "Raw, Simple Emotions" (VIDEO)

(HN, November 17, 2011) - Flamenco is an improvisational dance driven by the rhythms of the compas and the melodies of the cante and guitar.

It gained prominence during 15th century amongst ethnic minorities who were united by the hardships they endured under the Spanish Inquisition.

Though Flamenco's origins remain in Andalucia, southern Spain, it is enjoyed today by people all over the world who are captured by its raw, simple emotions. 

"Flamenco is a conversation between a dancer, singer and guitarist - sharing stories of love, pain and joy," says Canadian dance journalist Pia Lo.

Vancouver Flamenco instructor Oscar Nieto says the dance is typically accompanied by clapping, which he describes as "the glue that holds everything together...it's like a drummer in a band."

He adds: "Flamenco is a way of life: you eat it, you breath it, you live it. It's constantly with you."

 

Pia Lo is a Vancouver-based Dance Journalist, passionate about the stories behind each dance.  She shares her experiences of dance and travel in www.GlobeDancer.com