Paco Peña Flamenco Dance Company presents…“A Compás (In the Rhythm)”

Sunday, October 12, 2009
7:30 pm
Miller Theatre, Houston, TX

(As part of the25th Anniversary of el Dia de Hispanidad)

Story by Lali Calix, Photos by Lorie Garcia

Paco Peña’s ”A Compás” in Houston, Texas was phenomenal! A treat to the city of Houston – the show was free and because it was free to the public, there were many children in the audience who were most likely impressed for life by what they saw. This is the same incredible performance that many paid top dollar to see in major cities across the country. A double encore (lagniappe) – was offered to the wildly cheering audience as Paco and Company accepted a special award from the city of Houston.

I truly believe “A Compás” was the proper name for this show as the energy, lighting, and music captivated my heart in the most breathtaking way imaginable. It’s clear that not only do they do a great job, but you can see they have fun at it. Everyone involved in this production has honed their craft.

Irma La Paloma of Solero Flamenco was quoted as saying: “A true blend of tradition, modern fine art and elegance.” Other comments, “Graceful, elegant, classic, and fresh.” Solero guitarist Jeremias Garcia "El Valiente" was overhead saying: “I wish I could have just one private class with Paco!!!”

And now, to tell you about the show:

The opening number “Jaleos” was astounding! Guitarists Paco Peña, Paco Arriaga, and Rafael Montilla, singers Javier Márquez and Inmaculada Rivero , and cajón player Nacho López all came together as a tight cuadro with dancers Ángel Muñoz, Charo Espino, and Ramón Martínez . This was truly a stellar combination of performers.

The dancing was like water, cool, crisp, and crystal clear. The timing, lines, and beautiful shadows cast by the three dancers from one to another were perfect in execution. The entire Company was involved in the opening number sparking the imagination of the audience. Ms. Espino’s skill at resembling a cringeing swan who unfolds her wings in defiance (as is typical in flamenco) is unequalled. Her movements are poetic, fluid, and magical. The tension was perfect in hitting its mark. She captures that elusive feminine quality which is part of a centuries-old tradition and she leaves you wanting more!

The "Petenera", a Guitar Solo by Paco Pena is traditionally known as a dangerously forbidden song (many flamencos have a superstitious fear of performing Peteneras onstage). However in this case it was a perfect vehicle for demonstrating the Maestro’s skill and fearlessness. The sound coming forth from the strings was truly haunting. When you listen to Paco play, it’s like listening to two or three guitars at once. It looks effortless, all those years of practice and learning, at least he makes it APPEAR that way. Who plays like this man? NO one.

Paco and Charo shared the stage for “Zorongo” (with the most incredible castenet playing). In fact, this is a signature number in A Compás and it tantalizes audiences worldwide with Charo Espino’s command of the castañuelas (actually, palillos is the correct term). Hers were made of a rare Filigrana wood over 20 years old. The sound was unbelievably clear, and her ‘matiz’ (accents) impeccable. You couldn’t take your eyes off her as she used both body and castanets in seamless fashion to provoke, tease, and enchant the Maestro as he calmly played against her mischievous energy.

In “Caña”, dancers (and partners in real-life) Mr. Muñoz and Ms. Espino present that balance of male and female, light and dark, sweet and sorrowful. The most gorgeous and sensual flamenco dance pair, their inner beauty is made manifest in this particular dance especially. How apt that they picked Caña to show it. You can see from the photo how he draws her in, like a matador to the kill. And speaking of matadors…he wore snug-fitting, traditional trousers evoking the age-old masculine grace of Toreros who perform in the “Corrida”. This alone sets him apart from today's flamenco performers who appear onstage in sloppy ensembles of jeans and untucked shirts. Edith Head once said “With the right clothing, you can do anything!” Doubtless, Ángel Muñoz cast a spell with his choice of clothing which complemented his body’s panther-like movements.

With "Alegrias de Cádiz", Ramón Martínez comes alive with formidable skill as a fine flamenco dancer. (As an aside it’s typical of Paco to choose the very best artists for his shows. He has no reservation of sharing the stage with top-level performers, in fact, he demands it). All the better for us, the audience. Dressed in black and accented by red patent leather boots, Sr. Martínez danced with the same abandon as the heroine in the fairy tale of "The Red Shoes". Perhaps a deliberate choice on his part. He earned at least three standing ovations for his trouble (and his hips). Evidently judging by the number of women close to passing out in the audience, this is no surprise.

The entire Company appeared for “Martinete”. Usually in this number, one uses an anvil, but a regular hammer on a flat metal tube substituted for the sound. Palmas was performed by Inma, Charo sat and let her feet do all the talking. There were also palmas Gitano knuckle rapping and cajón. To round out the rhythmic ensemble. There are simply no words for the brilliance of these seasoned professional flamenco performers working as a cohesive unit, yet each shining with their own distinct personalities and talents. The ritmo was flawless, just flawless. The audience was enthralled by this combination of tools, hands, feet, and objects as the flavor of “Los Mineros” rings loud and clear throughout the piece.

Sharp, uncompromising, and fiery, “Bulerías” marked the fin de fiesta. The Company was strong yet playful in their execution, capturing that trademark rhythm of flamenco. They brought the audience to their feet. Roaring their approval, the spectators were left breathless and perhaps inclined towards radically passionate behavior… Paco Peña Flamenco Dance Company continues to capture the hearts and minds of everyone who crosses its path.

Editor’s Note:
Paco Peña FLAMENCO DANCE COMPANY continues its North American Tour. Log on to the tour site HERE for all locations and dates.

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