Free Newsletter
Listen to this article
A Palo Seco is a New York based Flamenco Company that strives to develop a unique voice, employing their Flamenco expertise, while also taking into account the context in which they live. Their work aims to expose people to an innovative way of looking at Flamenco, combining traditional techniques with a modern, metropolitan flare. Run by artistic director and choreographer, Rebeca Tomas, the company debuted its first production in May 2010 at Theatre 80 St. Marks (New York City). The production was described as “a feast for the eyes and the ears” (Linsday Miller, Theatre On-Line), and reviewed by several press sources, including the New York Times. Jack Anderson, for the New York Theatre Wire, wrote, “Tomas is seeking to develop Flamenco in new ways.” The company has continued its yearly New York City season at Theatre 80, as well as appearing throughout the U.S. at the at venues such as 2012 the Chicago Flamenco Festival and Jacob’s Pillow. Tomas and company have also been featured as guest artists at the NYC Between the Seas Festival of the Mediterranean in the summers of 2011, 2012, and 2013.
“A Palo Seco” is a phrase that refers to a bare-bones style of flamenco music, often consisting of singing or percussion alone. This stripped-down aesthetic has become a central theme in artistic director Rebeca Tomas’ choreography, characterizing her biggest departures from tradition, while also rooting her work in the emotional rawness that lies at the heart of the art of Flamenco.
A Palo Seco Flamenco Company performs at the Multicultural Arts Center on Friday, Dec. 16. Showtime is 8 PM. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 on day of show, if available.
