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Posted on March 18, 2014
I jaleo with the best of them and don’t seem to be able stop myself. I even find myself saying “ole” while I’m photographing dancers on the stage. But I surprised even myself when I heard the phrase “tan guapo” (too good-looking) from my own mouth at the end of the photocall with Farruquito (pictured).
His dance style demands it. It’s a perfectly synchronised syncretism of stunning zapateo, marvellous musicality and traditional, old-style flamenco. No new Spanish dance here, no fusion, no attempt to be anything other than what he is: a great dancer of pedigree, accompanied by wonderful musicians, who is accustomed to holding the audience’s attention on a world-class stage.
I’m told he’s also an excellent teacher. Even a “principiante” was impressed by his patience and (in our wonderfully British way) slightly embarrassed by his attentiveness. At a masterclass organised by Ilusion Flamenca he expressed a hope that he could return to give a longer course.
I’ll be there if he does.
Photograph: Carole Edrich