World-renowned flamenco dancer, choreographer and artist SARA BARAS is bringing her four-act Spanish dance to the Singapore stage on 10 and 11 January. Her award-winning career has included performing around the globe, choreographing 17 productions and working in film and television. This production, Vuela, pays tribute to revolutionary Spanish guitar virtuoso, Paco de Lucia. Here are her insights on the flamenco show!
Tell us about the essence of flamenco.
Flamenco is born from emotion and the heart; it’s the soundtrack of my life. For me, and for most of us who dedicate ourselves to it, flamenco is a way of life. It is about feeling and truth; it comes from the heart. For this reason, it’s essential not to turn it into mathematics but to approach it with the premise that flamenco flows with life itself.
Why do you love this Spanish dance style?
It’s hard to choose just one thing, but I would highlight the identity of flamenco. It’s a style so rich in both music and dance that it offers an infinite range of possibilities. There is incredible wealth in how it’s performed, and in the diversity of artists, personalities and audiences it attracts. From the most traditional flamenco to the most avant-garde interpretations, the variety is immense.
What is the story or inspiration behind Vuela?
It’s a tribute performance to the genius of the guitar, Paco de Lucía. Additionally, it celebrates the 25th anniversary of my company. For me, it’s a gift to mark this milestone by dedicating it to the Maestro, dancing for him each day to thank him for everything he has given us through his music, and personally for his friendship, advice and affection.
What can audiences expect from the different acts in this flamenco show?
Vuela is divided into four acts: Wood, Sea, Death and Fly. It’s filled with details about Maestro Paco de Lucía, but it also reflects the evolution of these 25 years and the personal growth we’ve experienced. ‘Wood’ reminds us of tradition, the strength of our roots. ‘Sea’ invites us to feel love for our homeland. ‘Death’ teaches us that although our loved ones may leave us, we can feel gratitude for having had them in our lives rather than sadness for their absence. And ‘Fly’ celebrates, through dance, music and emotion, how fortunate we are.
How about musically?
Musically, it’s a show with beautiful energy – profound but not sorrowful, and rich in details that evoke the Maestro. The music was composed by the Cádiz-born guitarist Keko Baldomero, the musical director of my company, who is at the height of his career. He is accompanied by five live musicians, blending the Maestro’s compositions with new pieces dedicated to him.
What was the rehearsal process like? And was a particular dance or scene particularly challenging to perfect?
This is a meticulously crafted performance, with countless hours of work behind it. Each part is special for its own reasons. The choreography features a wide variety of flamenco styles, brilliantly performed by an outstanding ensemble of dancers who alternate with me in the numbers. I also particularly enjoyed working on the lighting, designed by Óscar Gómez de los Reyes, the costumes by Luis F. Dos Santos, and the stunning stage design by Ras Artesanos, which together create the perfect atmosphere to make the audience feel like they’re soaring.
Is there anything you’re planning to do or that you have missed since your last visit to Singapore in 2016?
Unfortunately, we’ll have very little time for this visit. I would love to stay longer, but the tour continues in Spain. Dancing in a theatre like the Esplanade is a luxury, especially in front of such an engaged audience as Singapore’s. My goal is to make the audience enjoy the show to the fullest and, in my free moments, take a stroll around the city and savour its incredible cuisine.
Where and when to see the flamenco show
Date: Friday 10 January or Saturday 11 January 2025
Time: 8pm to 9.50pm (no intermission)
Where: Esplanade Theatre
Find out more about the Spanish dance and flamenco show Vuela here!
