Ballet Nacional de España the World's Leading Flamenco Company

Ballet Nacional de España (National Ballet of Spain) is considered to be the world’s leading flamenco dance company. This large company blends the passion of traditional flamenco with the technique and choreographic possibilities of classical ballet.

Ballet Nacional de España in New York City

Ballet Nacional de España (Maria Alperi/Ballet Nacional)

Ballet Nacional de España “Invocación,” directed by Rubén Olmo, is an epic piece with 38 dancers dancing many flamenco styles including a tribute to Mario Maya, one of the creators of the Andalusian Flamenco Theater; for the Flamenco Festival New York City Center in Midtown, Manhattan; from Friday-Sunday, March 8-10, 2024. From $45. nycitycenter.org 🇪🇸

“Invocación” is an interesting title. It likely refers to invoking duende, the flamenco spirit. In the Caribbean, we call it “trance.” Sufi dancers calle it “God.” In Silicon Valley, they call it “flow,” but you can get there through dance. Flamenco artists practice entering the duende every day. That’s how they are able to turn it on and off as they enter and exit the stage. Audiences love it because by mimicking

Ballet Nacional de España

Ballet Nacional de España was founded in 1978 as Ballet Nacional Español, under the direction of Antonio Gades. It is part of the National Institute of the Performing Arts and Music, under Spain’s Ministry of Culture and Sport.

It’s purpose is to preserve traditional flamenco and at the same time open new avenues for flamenco expression. It performs all over Spain, and around the world. The Company also teaches flamenco as therapy for children with special needs. It’s amazing to watch some of these kids dance because they dance perfectly. The don’t need anything, other than to dance. The Company has won many awards in Spain and around the world.

Ballet Nacional de España made their first visit to New York City in over 20 years in 2018. Director Antonio Najarro set his “Suite Sevilla” to music by Rafael Riqueni.

Rubén Olmo has directed the company since 2019.