The annual Festival Flamenco Albuquerque, presented by the National Institute of Flamenco, University of New Mexico, PNC Bank, and the National Hispanic Cultural Center, is set to take place from June 21-29. This festival, the oldest and largest flamenco festival outside of Spain, will feature 20 performances, over 60 workshops, 13 internationally renowned performance companies, one local New Mexican company, two world premiere shows, and over 90 performers.
In its 37th year, Festival Flamenco Albuquerque (FFABQ) is known for hosting some of the world’s most prominent flamenco artists. Attendees can look forward to unforgettable performances from artists like dancer Karime Amaya, Farruquito, singer “El Pele,” and the talented Campallo family. The festival will showcase diverse interpretations of flamenco, including avant-garde performances from visionary artists like Manuel Liñán, Estévez y Paños, Mercedes de Córdoba, and María Moreno. Rising stars such as Águeda Saavedra and Eduardo Guerrero will also grace the stage with their energetic performances.
All of the scheduled concerts will make their U.S. premiere during FFABQ37, with venues including the Journal Theatre at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, and UNM’s Rodey and Experimental Theatres. Additionally, late-night performances will take place at Tablao Flamenco Albuquerque located inside Hotel Albuquerque.
The festival also caters to children and youth with the Flamenco Kids Camp and Festival Juvenil. The Flamenco Kids Camp is a day camp for children ages 6-12, introducing them to flamenco arts and culture. Festival Juvenil is for experienced young flamenco dancers ages 10-15, offering exclusive classes taught by guest artists.
In addition to performances, the festival offers the Flamenco in Your Neighborhood Series, which includes free classes and outdoor concerts in various locations. The Exposición Flamenca Juvenil features family-friendly performances by young flamenco dancers at Albuquerque’s Old Town Gazebo.
The National Institute of Flamenco, founded in 1982, has become a significant arts organization known for its flamenco programming. NIF houses the Conservatory of Flamenco Arts, where flamenco study begins at an early age, and Yjastros: The American Flamenco Repertory Company.
The University of New Mexico and the National Hispanic Cultural Center are proud partners of the festival, with UNM being home to the only accredited dance program in the U.S. with a concentration in flamenco. The NHCC is dedicated to preserving and promoting Hispanic culture, while PNC Bank supports the festival as part of its commitment to community and cultural initiatives.
