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The Forum: Flamenco: Darkness and light

Discussion & Talk

Flamenco dancing.  Credit: Getty Image

30/12/2017 GMT

Flamenco: Darkness and light

BBC World Service - The Forum, Flamenco: Darkness and light

Rajan Datar and guests explore the origins and evolution of flamenco

Rajan Datar discusses the evolution and workings of flamenco with guitarist Brook Zern, dancer María Bermúdez and Dr Matthew Machin-Autenrieth.

Flamenco is easily recognised across the world thanks to certain stereotypes, namely spotty dresses, shirt-tearing and lots of foot stamping.  

The reality however is far more nuanced, and this extraordinarily complex music and dance form can take many years – if not a lifetime – to master.  For those steeped in its traditions, they describe it as a way of life.  

With the help of musical examples, Rajan Datar and guests explore how flamenco works, and discuss how it’s grown from its origins in the marginalised communities of southern Spain to become a commercial success the world over.  

Joining Rajan are flamenco aficionado and guitarist Brook Zern, dancer María Bermúdez from flamenco’s heartland in Jerez de la Frontera and Dr Matthew Machin-Autenrieth from the University of Cambridge in the UK.

Photo: Flamenco dancing (Getty Images)

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