Vancouver International Flamenco Festival unveils its 2023 lineup

by Mike Usinger on August 8th, 2023 at 1:28 PM

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The Vancouver International Flamenco Festival has announced its lineup for 2023, with highlights including performers from not only Canada and Spain, but also Cuba, Mexico, India, and Turkey. Dance fans can also look forward to a four-day spotlight run from the boundary-exploding Spanish troupe Compañía Rocío Molina, which will be a co-presentation with DanceHouse and SFU Woodward's Cultural Programs.

The 33rd edition of the Vancouver Internationl Flamenco Festival will take place from September 18 to 30 at venues across the city, including the Scotiabank Dance Centre, Waterfront Theatre, Fox Cabaret, and Fei Milton Wong Experimental Theatre. Free events will also be staged on September 23 and 24 at the Granville Island Picnic Pavilion.

Curious newcomers can get an instant grounding in one of Spain’s most iconic art forms with a September 18 Introduction to Flamenco masterclass with festival founder Rosario Ancer.

As for Compañía Rocío Molina, which runs September 27 to 30 at the Fei Milton Wong Experimental Theatre, expect flamenco at its most challenging and forward-thinking in Fallen From Heaven. Here’s how the Guardian described the show, which has punk-edged troupe founder Rocío Molina accompanied by live musicians, including a drummer and bassist:

“Under Molina’s lens, flamenco is a beast that can’t be tamed, only pacified. At times the dance courses through her like a current of rage she can’t quell; at others she wears it lightly, embellishing deep balletic pliés with tender pats to the thigh. The style’s usual hallmarks of passion and pride – piercing eye contact, a robust, upright posture – jostle for position with flashes of absurdity and jest.”

The Vancouver International Flamenco Festival was founded in 1990, with a mission to expose audiences to both traditional and contemporary flamenco.

For the full lineup of this year’s fest, including show times and tickets, go here.