Hosted by Alba Flamenca
Review by Marina Funcasta
Referring to their show as a “flamenco fiesta”, Alba flamenco could not be closer to the truth. A party in every sense of the word, the collective filled the intimate room with effervescence. On the edge of our seats, looking around, it was impossible not to feel the tension in the room; from audience members trying to clap along (emphasis on the trying, las palmas are certainly more complicated than it seems, as I discovered through sitting next to the lady to my left), there were occasions where the chairs seemed the only obstacle barring the audience to their seats. To call this show electric would be an understatement.
To be sure, commencing with the enigmatic guitarist ‘Philip’s’ solo song, positioned on the stage left, it is a shame he was not more visible. Unlike the singers and dancers, Philip hid his face, forcing us to connect through the sound and appearance of the guitar itself. However, this is not a detriment as the instrument’s character emerges from the forefront as the key that unlocks the wider performance.
Swiftly accompanied by the cajón, played by Pedro Morate, the instruments shine in their moveability. They frame the dancers and singers without taking up too much space, adding structure to an otherwise spontaneous melting pot of emotion. The impression, upon welcoming all performers on stage, was almost familiar; teasing and encouraging one another, the sense of play was palpable. I suppose this made the atmosphere so infectious; sitting on my seat’s edge, I couldn’t help but feel an envious distance from the stage. To be sure, swelling in its diasporic status, this is Alba Flamenca’s ultimate raison d’etre – constructing a space of community, safety, and homeliness.
The pillars of the act were David Salvador, one of the cantaores, and dancer Aroa Paredes. Both performed with such emotion that their genuine passion for the art truly surpassed translation. Dancing with grain and grit, Paredes captivated through every movement despite a wardrobe malfunction. She intimidated, seduced, teased and exposed a certain vulnerability all in one song, picking from each when it suited. A Rubix cube of emotions, her dance style switched magnetically – all in sync with Salvador’s entrancing singing.
What I find most fascinating about flamenco is its communication of pain and desperation. Borne partially out of states of misery, the singers and dancers exhibit defiance I have yet to discover in any other dance form. Daring the audience to witness their performance, the “flamenco fiesta” resides on exhibitions of confidence and ego, perhaps explaining its ultimate sensuality.
Just parallel to Nicholson Street, Alba Flamenco draws you in with an understated charm, promising a great show in an independent venue. Perfectly timed, some post-show tapas are served next door to complete the entire cultural experience. Spearheaded by Pam Anderson, it is clear she knows how to infuse our Athens of the North with a slice of Spain, and the result is truly unmissable.
Understated Charm
Alba Flamenca runs at Alba Flamence until August 26th.
Running time: One hour without interval
Photo credit – Ross Fraser McLean
Review by Marina Funcasta (contact@corrblimey.uk)
Marina is halfway through an English literature degree at Edinburgh University, wherein she has been (considerably) involved in the drama scene: enjoying performing with their Shakespeare Company shows, but also modern takes on Arthur Miller. However, Marina’s interests are wide-ranging under the theatre genre – enjoying abstract, more contemporary takes on shows (with a keen interest in Summerhall)
