Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo, directed by Jason and Mele Martinez, is a performance group presenting authentic dance and music in the cultural tradition of Andalusian Gypsy flamenco. Live guitar, singing, and percussion accompany dance ranging from the most authentic solo improvisational dance art to exciting modern group choreography.
Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo was created in Tucson, AZ in 2006 by flamenco artist Mele and Jason Martinez. Both have studied the art form extensively both in Spain and in the United States, with most of their training based at the National Conservatory of Flamenco Arts and the National Institute of Flamenco. Both were corps members and soloists for the American Flamenco Repertory Co. Both tour throughout the US and beyond with some of the best flamenco companies and musicians in the country.
In Tucson, Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo also presents accomplished musicians Misael Barraza, winner of several prestigious awards in Flamenco Guitar both in the US and in Spain, and Macarena Giraldez, flamenco singer from Sevilla, Spain, who studied the art and culture of flamenco from her mother who was also a flamenco singer in Spain.
Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo offers classes and workshops for the Tucson community and beyond. They are the only artists in the Tucson area of such expertise who teach flamenco dance, percussion, and song. This past September, Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo helped to bring about, in coordination with Club Espana and Casa Vicente Spanish Restaurant, the 3rd installment of the Tucson Spanish and Flamenco Festival! This annual event is a labor of love undertaken to bring high quality art, entertainment, and education to our beloved city! Displaying some of the highest level flamenco perormance in the USA, this event has evoloved into a much anticipated event.
