My wife and I are amateur aficionados of flamenco and have loved it for decades, all without a deep knowledge of the art. We were recently introduced to Jaime Fresneda Garcia and Flamenco Benalmadena via his Gypsy Kings tribute show at a local Torremolinos restaurant Casa Colon. He possesses an infectious good humour and a charming smile. After the show we spoke to him about flamenco and he invited us to his Benalmadena locale for a proper evening of flamenco music and dance.
Flamenco Benalmadena is situated in a simple building which also serves as the teaching classroom for the dance courses offered. Jaime greeted all the evenings guests personally, making you feel truly welcome. This is a long way from the big hotel productions, it is an intimate scene, holding some 25 guests, which provides a more realistic and traditional setting.
For our evening he was accompanied by guitarist Fran Moya, a cajon player (percussionist) and an exciting young dancer named Rocio Cabrera. We were quickly taken into the world of Spanish flamenco guitar and the gunshot sharp hand-clapping rhythms (palmas). Jaime's voice and precise dancing brought us all into the passion and pain that is flamenco. Alternating with Rocio, they took us on an exciting journey of driving rhythms and flashing stamping feet. It is no wonder that Jaime has the nickname El Estampio (The Stampede).
In the intimate locale, we could easily witness the close workmanship between the musicians and their obvious joy and pleasure working together.
These almost private exhibitions are a far cry from the large scale shows that are often presented in hotels and the like. The modest entrance fee, coupled with the musical, theatrical, cultural experiences makes this a Saturday evening not to be missed We cannot recommend this show enough....
Read moreWow, what an incredible flamenco show! It was so unexpected to find a flamenco show with this much talent and authenticity in benalmadena. The venue is quite intimate which I believe adds to its charm and makes it feel like your at a neighbourhood party in the heart of flamenco origin. We enjoyed it so much, I'd say its the only place to go see flamenco. The two dancers, Asami and Jaime are so talented, you can truly feel the passion and definitely stands out above generic flamenco performers. The guitarist has crazy skills and is mesmerising. Tickets are fairly priced at 15€ entrance or 20€ front row seats with a drink included for 1 hour show. The show was sold out so I'd recommend to book tickets in advance as people were turned away. All around great show and fabulous night out, it's a must do...
Read moreMy husband & me have seen this show 4times,it is fabulous,the passion of the dancers &guitar player is amazing,we feel so lucky to be able to share there true culture of flamenco,it is an absolute must if your on the costa del sol,it won't disappoint,,pure professional it will leave you speechless,I was disgusted to read the negative review regarding no female dancer due to an emergency,as for fake this lady is a professional dancer that always gives no less than 100 per cent.it is an honour to share there real passion & culture of the real flamenco it's the best 15 euros you will spend...shame on the sad person who posted a negative review such culture was wasted on you,carnt wait to see the show a...
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