Cobar residents were treated to a fantastic performance of Flamenco music, dancing, percussion, poetry and storytelling when the Flamenco for Everybody ensemble visited last week.
Created by the Annalouise Paul Dance Theatre, the Flamenco for Everybody show has been touring Riverina and Outback NSW regional towns during March and April.
The cast gave two performances and conducted a workshop at the Cobar Services Club last week.
Created by renowned dancer, Annalouise Paul during COVID lockdowns, the live performances featured poetry, percussion, Flamenco guitar, contemporary and Flamenco dance and storytelling with the audience seated up close to the action.
Cobar High School music teacher Laura Andrew attended and said the performance was “a vibrant and captivating celebration of flamenco’s passion and power”.
“From the moment the first notes rang out, the performers drew the audience into a world of rhythm, expression, and movement — a world where shouts of “olé!” rang out in appreciation and encouragement,” Ms Andrew said.
“Annalouise Paul’s dancing was a highlight of the evening, her intricate footwork and dramatic gestures capturing both the energy and complexity of Flamenco tradition.
“Equally mesmerising was Ana Otero, whose haunting voice led a number of traditional Flamenco songs with soul-stirring intensity, evoking deep emotion and commanding attention,” Ms Andrew said.
She also praised the performances of guitarist Robbie Varga, percussionist Cristhian Valencia and dancer Elena Salerno.
“Together, the ensemble captured the true essence of Flamenco — its passion, complexity, and vitality.
She said the Flamenco rhythms were infectious and it was impossible not to tap your feet or sway in your seat.
“Flamenco for Everybody was not just a concert; it was a celebration of connection, culture, and expression,” Ms Andrew said.
Cobar Arts Council secretary Susan Singleton also attended and said it was a “powerful performance” and a “wonderful insight into a unique form of dance, storytelling and culture which is rarely or never seen in the Outback”.
“The audience were very enthusiastic and applauded loud appreciation,” Mrs Singleton said.
