This is this reviewer’s second time seeing a evening of Flamenco at Lakeside, both times from Flamenco Edition. The first time was to witness the impressive talents of Jesus Fernandes and this time, even more impressively – were that possible – to see the fabulous Compaňia Olga Pericet with her devised show “Sin Titulo”.
Pericet is described as one of the most celebrated female flamenco dancers of the moment and the sold out show at Lakeside Nottingham is testament to that immense talent. We learn that Pericet’s approach to choreography and dance is innovative, blending traditional flamenco values with her powerful femininity. During the eighty minute musically varied show she demonstrates her tremendous dexterity, her humour, her womanhood, her heightened and controlled dance temperaments and el duende at its finest.
Lorca described the spirit of el duende as a power not a work, a struggle not a thought. Its arrival and possession bring a radical change in forms and this is precisely what we witness tonight on stage both through the brilliantly expressive dancer Pericet and also through her four singer/musicians. Singers Manuel Gogo and Miguel Lavis beautifully express their songs darker elements and although the sounds and words are possibly unfamiliar to most of this audience the sounds speak of ancient cultures and of spontaneous creation. Equally beautiful are the guitar talents of Antonia Jiménez and Pino Losada and some of their haunting guitar pieces either solo or duo are achingly good. So good in fact that the term ‘transported into another place’ could have been written especially for them and their music.
Pericet superbly executes five contrasting flamenco influenced palos with the second Ensoňacion (fantasy) being the most obviously flamenco. Her engagingly pronounced female personality – in all its fascinating forms, and stunning costumes add to the drama and excitement of an unforgettable evening. “Guapa!”
Reviewer: Phil Lowe
The tour continues to The Lowry tonight (weds) and tomorrow then to Deda Derby 13th May and the International Dance Festival Birmingham #IDFB2016 17th and 18th May.