Straight from the heart of Seville, Spain, Granada Flamenco Ballet is set to perform its riveting rendition of Báilame (Dance for Me) for the first time on the Philippine stage on Sept. 20 and 21 at the Casino Español de Cebu in Cebu City, and on Sept. 22 and 23 at the Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater) inside the CCP Complex.

This production is a collaboration between the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the Embassy of Spain in Manila, the Casino Español de Cebu, and the Flamenco Agency from Seville to commemorate the Philippines and Spain’s diplomatic relations for 75 years.

“Granada Flamenco Ballet is more than a dance ensemble. They are the living testament to the art form that influenced many Filipinos. The fusion between history and artistry will definitely create an unforgettable experience that appeals to both aficionados and newcomers to the Flamenco scene,” said CCP vice-chair Margie Moran-Floirendo.

Báilame is a ballet performance focusing on finding a greater balance between music and dance. For this show, the audience will be enthralled by the absence of a plot, making everything else focused on the dancers’ movements.

The repertoire for the Philippine premiere will focus on sensations and feelings associated with the sound of the flamenco shoes or castanets, other acoustics, or the most profound silence while dancing.
Founded in 2007 by Dr. Jaime Trancoso, the Granada Flamenco Ballet has taken its artistry to international audiences, earning a reputation of having the best flamenco artists in Spain.

Similarly, the dance group has graced prestigious venues across the globe, such as the National Center for the Performing Arts Opera House in Beijing (NCPA), Shanghai International Dance Center Grand Theatre (SIDC), Aga Khan Museum (Canada), and the Teatro Campoamor de Oviedo (Spain).
“While keeping the traditional elements of flamenco, Granada Flamenco Ballet has a fearless approach to fusion. And with each performance, they exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression,” said CCP president Michelle Nikki Junia.

Flamenco dances often demonstrate stories through graceful movements and intricate footwork coupled with acoustics. Spain also had a significant influence on the Philippine dance traditions during the 16th century.
This led to the birth of the country’s national dance, cariñosa, and other famous flamenco-inspired folk dances, such as pandanggo sa ilaw, zarzuela, and tinikling, which are performed with pride during important events to this day.

“Filipinos love to dance. It is deep within our roots. To see where it bloomed would definitely be an experience. This staging is also a testament to the rich blending of cultures that lived through time,” said CCP artistic director Dennis Marasigan.

Promoting authentic flamenco production on the local stages strengthens CCP’s mission and dedication to providing more diverse cultural experiences for Filipino audiences. CCP also hopes this staging will inspire the younger generation to engage in the arts.

Ticket prices for Cebu range from ₱800 to ₱1,000, while for Manila at ₱2,000. Discounts for students, PWDs, and senior citizens also apply. Granada Flamenco Ballet’s Báilame tickets are available at Ticketworld www.premier.ticketworld.com.ph. www.culturalcenter.gov.ph