A promise made is a promise kept.
That is the simple yet powerful theme of this year’s flamenco show presented by Los Gitanos Spanish School of Dance. It will run from May 22 to 24 at the Tsawwassen Arts Centre.
A year ago, long-time flamenco dance student, music lover and Port Metro Vancouver high-ranking executive Sheri Plewes lost her battle with cancer. Prior to her death she made two requests to Bev Mantovani, owner, dance teacher and choreographer of Los Gitanos.
“She asked me to dance at her funeral service and she asked me to present an award to one of my students in her memory,” explains Mantovani. “I completed the first request and it was one of the most difficult things I have ever done, but at the same time one of the most heartfelt and significant in my career.”
The second request is coming to fruition during this year’s performance, which has been titled Promesa, to fulfill what was promised to a dear friend.
“This show will be presented in two segments. The first one is a traditional flamenco fiesta with live musicians and singers. The second one features a magnificent piece of music by Spanish virtuoso guitarist Vicente Amigo. This instrumental composition is incredibly moving and inspirational and provides the perfect frame to honour Sheri’s memory.”
The Los Gitanos group consists of about 30 students ranging from six to over 75 years of age, from beginners to advanced, from all walks and stages in life.
“Flamenco celebrates the individual, their emotions, their inner passion and fears, their joy and their accomplishments. It shows their discipline, their determination and ultimately their love of dance,” says Mantovani.
“Sheri’s daughter Sarah started coming to the studio as a toddler watching her mom dance. She is now 20-years-old and will be performing a solo for her mom, which is absolutely special to all of us.”
Mario Sorta, featured this year, is a multi-instrumentalist and multi-talented musician, singer and songwriter born in Mexico. In Vancouver since 2010, he has influenced the local artist community infusing energy, passion and innovation in all areas of music.
“Mario is not only a wonderful flamenco singer who regularly performs at Kino Cafe but he has also started the Mexican Music School in Canada to preserve the folklore of his native country,” says Mantovani. “I am so happy to have him once again in Tsawwassen so our local audience can enjoy and appreciate his talent.”
Other partners in this performance include local musician and percussionist Dave McIlory.
“You would think Dave was born playing the cajon, this special box-shaped percussion instrument originally from Peru. He has such an incredible sense of rhythm and deep understanding of music,” says Mantovani.
Peter Mole, a well-known Spanish guitarist and long time associate of Los Gitanos, is returning to perform.
“I cannot imagine doing a show without him,” says Mantovani. “He is the best in the business. His knowledge, years of experience and love of this genre are a gift to our audience who sometimes are not very familiar with this art form.”
The annual performance sponsored by Northern Building Supplies promises to be an event filled with passionate drama and rhythm. Tickets cost $25 and you can get them by calling 604-948-8081 or email [email protected].
Doors open at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday with performances starting at 7:30 p.m.
On Sunday, doors open at 3 p.m. and the performance starts at 3:30 p.m.
