World-Class Flamenco Dancers Kick Into Town

Thu., May 23, 1996

Courtney Page Correspondent

The hottest name in flamenco dancing, the Jose Greco Spanish Dance Company, comes stomping and clapping into Spokane next week.

Jose Greco II leads the 10-member troupe, which promises to display the exciting and sensual flamenco dance of Spain. The company will dance two performances, an hour-long free program in the afternoon and a full evening performance, both at the Spokane Community College’s Lair Auditorium.

For many dance fans, the name Jose Greco is synonymous with flamenco dancing. Most will remember the master from the height of his popularity in the 1950s, when he embarked on several world tours and appeared as a regular on the Ed Sullivan TV show. Greco has passed his legacy to his son, Jose Greco II, who is now the artistic director and principal dancer with the company.

Jose Greco II was born in Madrid, Spain, and began his dance training at age 17. He has danced with numerous companies as a principle dancer and has performed for the prince of Wales, the duke of Edingburgh and the king and queen of Spain.

Known for his fluid ballet and his crashing flamenco style, Greco has drawn rave reviews. Critics say he is his father’s equal.

Live and taped music will accompany Greco and the other performers as they bring the cultural event to life.

Flamenco is one of the liveliest of all dance spectacles. Myths hold that the Gypsies of Southern Spain developed and popularized the dance.

Rapid heel and toe clicking, hand clapping, finger snapping and castanets characterize the style. Singing and guitars often accompany the dancers.

One distinguishing characteristic of flamenco is the formal attitudes and gender roles that are present; the male dancers are macho and powerful while the female dancers focus more on the gracefulness of the hands and body.

Perhaps one of the most enjoyable aspects of flamenco is the passion with which the dancers perform and how they communicate this energy to the audience. Vibrant, traditional Spanish costumes add to the festive spirit.

MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: FLAMENCO DANCING The Jose Greco Spanish Dance Company will perform at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Wednesday at Spokane Community College’s Lair Auditorium. Tickets are free to the abbreviated afternoon performance; $20 for adults and $15 for students in the evening, available at SCC, Street Music and all G&B Select-a-Seat outlets (or call 325-SEAT).

This sidebar appeared with the story: FLAMENCO DANCING The Jose Greco Spanish Dance Company will perform at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Wednesday at Spokane Community College’s Lair Auditorium. Tickets are free to the abbreviated afternoon performance; $20 for adults and $15 for students in the evening, available at SCC, Street Music and all G&B; Select-a-Seat outlets (or call 325-SEAT).