Soul of Spain: Flamenco/Andalusia with Manuel Gutierrez and Yuval Ron Ensemble

“An extraordinary testament to music’s transforming power and inspirational reach.” (KCRW, National Public Radio)

In a vivid program,  flamenco master dancer and singer Manuel Gutierrez  and  the Yuval Ron Ensemble – explore the Gypsy and Jewish traditions of Andalusia, Spain. With fiery Flamenco,   Sephardic-Jewish music, fiery dance, and fascinating storytelling, the program delves deep into the Golden Age of Spain, a time of collaboration between the three Abrahamic faiths, which led to cultural   and scientific peak achievements. With Andres Vadin – guitar, Elinor Sitrish – vocals, Jamie Papish – percussion, and Yuval Ron – oud.

The Yuval Ron Ensemble endeavors to alleviate national, racial, religious and cultural divides by uniting the music and dance of the people of the Middle East into a unique mystical, spiritual and inspiring musical celebration. The ensemble includes Jewish, Christian and Muslim artists who have been actively involved in creating musical bridges between people of various faiths and ethnic groups worldwide. Led by Award winning composer Yuval Ron (music for Oscar winning film “West Bank Story”) the Ensemble has enjoyed overwhelming community support, was chosen to be featured in PBS “Holiday Celebration” TV specials and was honored with the Los Angeles Treasures Award and the Lincoln/Standing Bear Gold Medal from the City of Lincoln, NE in appreciation of its efforts for peace and justice worldwide. Manuel Gutierrez, who began dancing flamenco at the age of four and was winning flamenco dance competitions by eight. Gutierrez is the soul of “courage” or spontaneity and to watch him perform is to realize that nothing expresses the masculine vigor in dance as flamenco does.

Contact: events@esperanzaunityhousing.org