From traditional flamenco to Hispanic ballet, award-winning dance groups are strutting through the Hudson Valley this month. Ballet Hispanico is the nation’s premier Latino dance organization, led by Cuban-American choreographer Eduardo Vilaro. The group is known for its provocative outfits and high-spirited, fast-paced movements. A much more traditional dance style—Spanish flamenco—also makes an appearance in the area with Flamenco Vivo. Carlota Santana leads the group and was awarded the Order of Civil Merit by the Consul General of Spain for honoring the country’s proudest art. Flamenco gives equal attention to joy and sorrow through song and dance, featuring acoustic guitar and customary long, ruffled gowns. Ballet Hispanico will dance their way to the Bardavon in Poughkeepsie on Saturday, March 15, at 8pm. (845) 473-2072; Bardavon.org. Flamenco Vivo/Carlota Santana takes the stage March 8, 7:30pm, at Kaatsbaan in Tivoli. (845) 757-5106; Kaatsbaan.org.
This article appears in March 2014.
