June 13 at the North Shore Center for One Performance Only - Ensemble Espanol Celebrates 50 Years

The world‑renowned Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater, in residence at Northeastern Illinois University, brings the passionate, expressive rhythms of Spain to life at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd., in honor of their 50th Anniversary Celebration—one performance only, Saturday, June 13 at 7:30 p.m.

“As the company celebrates its golden anniversary season, we are excited to present our company of dancers and guest artists for this special concert honoring the work of our founder, our company and everyone who has made it possible for us to provide the best in Spanish dance here and around the world,” says Irma Suarez Ruiz, Dame Libby Komaiko Legacy Artistic Director.

“For five decades, Ensemble Español has shared the passion, rhythm, and soul of Spanish dance with Chicago and the world, one breathtaking step at a time. Now, we invite everyone to join us as we celebrate that history and ignite the passion that will propel us into the next 50 years” added Executive Director, Jorge Perez.

Audiences will experience a special 50th Anniversary performance revival of Dame Libby’s iconic critically acclaimed “Boléro,” danced by the only remaining original dancers of this ballet from its premiere in 1993, Ruiz and Perez. Lively musical accompaniment will be provided for a selection of Flamenco dramas by musicians Jose Moreno (Flamenco singer, guitarist), Andrea Salcedo (Flamenco guitarist), and Bob Garrett (percussionist). Also joining the Ensemble Español will be classical guitarist, Brian Torosian.

The program is scheduled to feature the following works:

• “Amangue” (2023), a flamenco company work set in 2023 in the Buleria style by guest artist, Isaac Tovar, former principal of the National Ballet of Spain to original musical composition by renowned guitarist Curro de Maria.
• “Escenas Villanescas” (World Premiere) choreographed by Irma Suarez Ruiz and featuring the full company.
• “Pasion Oculta” (2019), a contemporary work by Ruiz, hailed by the Chicago Tribune as “Tour de force…Pasion Oculta is a modern masterpiece.”
• “Antecesores/Ancestors” (2025): This company flamenco drama performed to the songs and rhythms of Seville in Andalucía, southern part of Spain, is choreographed by newly appointed Associate Artistic Director, Jose Torres.
• “Boléro” (1993): The Ensemble Español will present the revival of Dame Libby Komaiko’s full company iconic “Bolero” to the music of Maurice Ravel The New York Times calls the “amazing.”

Tickets are $45 - $65 before ticketing and online purchasing fees. To purchase tickets and for more information visit NorthShoreCenter.org or call 847.673.6300.