Summary
Flamenco is probably Spain’s most famous art form (it’s certainly a lot less controversial than that other popular Spanish pastime). There are daily flamenco shows in Madrid, Barcelona, and Andalusian cities such as Seville, Granada, and Malaga, although many of these performances are geared towards tourists, making it difficult to determine which ones are the most authentic.
As a general guideline, if a venue has more than one show per night, the latest performance will attract more local Spaniards—resulting in fewer tourists—and the performance will be tailored accordingly.
Isn’t Flamenco Just a Dance?
No! Flamenco is a rich art form comprised of four distinct elements: guitar playing, vocals, flamenco dancing, and ‘palmas’ (hand clapping). Among these, the dancing is the element most likely to be omitted in performances.
If you are particularly interested in the dancing aspect, ensure that the show guarantees actual dance performances.
Performers are typically listed on promotional materials—’Baile’ refers to the dancer, ‘Cante’ to the singer, and ‘Guitarra’ to the guitarist. Almost all tourist-oriented shows will feature all three.
Additionally, the colorful dresses often seen in tourist brochures are usually reserved for special occasions; more frequently, the dancers wear black attire.
Interestingly, I have only encountered a flamenco dancer utilizing castanets on one occasion!
Why is it Called ‘Flamenco’?
Some speculate that the music was named ‘flamenco’ because the dancers’ movements are reminiscent of flamingos; however, this theory lacks strong evidence. The word ‘flamenco’ also translates to ‘Flemish,’ referring to individuals from the Dutch-speaking region of Belgium. It’s suggested that flamenco may have some European influences, particularly from Belgium. Another prevailing theory posits that it originates from the Arabic term ‘felag mengu,’ meaning ‘peasants without land.’ This could very well be the original form of the word before it evolved into its current iteration.
What Kind of Show Do You Want to See?
A crucial aspect to consider is whether you prefer to experience flamenco at its ‘best’ or its most ‘authentic.’ For instance, one might witness BB King at a massive sports arena—while it could be a top-notch blues concert, it may not embody the essence of ‘authentic’ blues. Conversely, a smoky blues bar tucked away in New Orleans may offer genuine blues but lacks the grandeur of a stadium event.
There exists a tendency for certain flamenco enthusiasts to dismiss larger venues like El Arenal in Seville, deeming them ‘for tourists.’ Nevertheless, true flamenco aficionados would gladly attend such venues nightly if financially feasible, as these locations host some of the finest artists. Just as prominent musicians like Jay-Z and Beyonce voice concerns about declining artist revenues, flamenco artists face similar challenges, leading to the best performances occurring at tourist-driven shows.
‘Tablaos’ tend to provide a formal and excellent display of flamenco, while flamenco bars often offer a more laid-back and ‘authentic’ atmosphere.
At a Festival
To truly immerse yourself in flamenco, attending a festival is ideal. While top stars often perform in tourist-centric tablaos, the real flamenco superstars usually only perform at major festivals in Spain.
Here are flamenco festivals in prominent Spanish cities that you shouldn’t miss:
- Madrid: Suma Flamenca throughout June.
- Jerez: Festival De Jerez late February to early March.
- Cordoba: Guitar Festival of Cordoba during the first half of July.
- Malaga: Feria de Malaga in August.
- Granada: Granada’s International Festival of Music and Dance late June or early July.
Flamenco in Madrid
Although Madrid is not traditionally regarded as the flamenco capital, being the financial hub of Spain allows it to attract top performers.
Due to Madrid’s lesser fame in the flamenco sphere, its venues do not heavily market to tourists. Look for bars with names like ‘tablao de something’—these are likely to be flamenco venues.
- Corral de la Moreria
One of the most renowned flamenco tablaos in Spain.
Calle de la Moreria, 17, 28005 Madrid, Spain - Cafe de Chinitas
A less famous (but still remarkable) venue in Madrid.
Calle Torija, 7, 28013 Madrid, Spain - Torres Bermejas
Beautiful tablao reflecting the style of Granada’s Alhambra.
Calle Mesonero Romanos, 11, 28013 Madrid, Spain - Casa Patas
An excellent flamenco tablao located between Atocha station and Sol.
Calle de los Cañizares, 10, 28012 Madrid, Spain - Las Carboneras
Another well-known flamenco tablao in Madrid.
Plaza del Conde de Miranda, 1, 28005 Madrid, Spain - Cardamomo
A very popular flamenco venue with a slightly less formal atmosphere.
C/ Echegaray, 15, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Flamenco in Barcelona
Even though Barcelona is not historically linked to flamenco, its cosmopolitan nature has drawn artists from Andalusia to Catalonia, with some of the largest flamenco shows now taking place in Barcelona.
- Tablao Cordobes
Centrally located flamenco show right on the Ramblas.
Les Rambles, 35, 08002 Barcelona, Spain - Opera and Flamenco
A unique combination of opera and flamenco presented in Barcelona. This distinctive mix of high arts is captivating, but do not expect traditional flamenco.
Les Rambles, 115, 08002 Barcelona, Spain - Palacio del Flamenco
Situated in the Eixample district.
Carrer de Balmes, 139, 08008 Barcelona, Spain - Tablao de Carmen
A flamenco showcase in the tourist-frequented Poble Espanyol on Montjuic.
Avda. Marqués de Comillas s/n. Poble Espanyol de Montjuïc. - Los Tarantos
One of the earliest flamenco tablaos in Barcelona, opened in 1963.
Placa Reial 17, Barcelona, Spain - Tablao Nervión
Located near the cathedral.
Carrer de la Princesa, 2, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Flamenco in Seville
Seville offers numerous options to witness flamenco, making it challenging to decide which performance to attend. Here are some of the city’s finest shows:
- El Arenal
One of the premier venues in Spain to experience high-quality flamenco.
Calle Rodo, 7, 41001 Sevilla, Spain - El Palacio Andaluz
Also known as El Palacio del Embrujo.
Calle de María Auxiliadora, 18A, 41008 Sevilla - Sala Alvarez Quintero
One of the more affordable quality flamenco shows in Seville.
Calle Alvarez Quintero 48, Sevilla, Spain - Casa de la Memoria
Located in the historic Santa Cruz area.
Calle Cuna, 6, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Flamenco in Granada
Granada is another fantastic location to enjoy flamenco. If you happen to be in town during a concert, consider catching a show in the Alhambra—my personal experience of watching a ‘flamenco ballet’ there was nothing short of exceptional.
- Shows in the Caves of Sacromonte
Flamenco performances can be found in the Sacromonte caves at venues like Cuevas los Tarantos, Cueva La Rocio, Museo de la Zambra, and Venta El Gallo. - Jardines de Zoraya, Granada
Calle Panaderos 32, 18010 Granada, Spain - Le Chien Andalou
A laid-back flamenco venue widely regarded as one of the best in Granada.
Carrera del Darro, 7, 18010 Granada, Spain
Other Cities in Andalusia
Many cities across Andalusia host flamenco performances. Consider visiting these venues in some of the more frequented destinations:
- Cordoba: Tablao del Cardenal
- Cadiz: La Cava Taberna Flamenca
- Jerez: Tabanco El Pasaje (showtimes are irregular; it’s advisable to check beforehand)
- Valencia: La Buleria
- Malaga: Taberna Flamenca Tocayos offers a lively youth-oriented atmosphere that showcases flamenco’s vibrant nature. It’s often more ‘flamenquito’ (flamenco pop) than traditional flamenco. Kelipe is also a commendable alternative.
