Ensemble Espanol Special Flamenco Passion Performances June 14-16

Ensemble Español hosts three “Flamenco Passion: A Tribute to Dame Libby Komaiko” dance and music performances at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, located at 9501 Skokie Blvd., June 14-16. These performances are in honor of founder Komaiko who passed away earlier this year and are part of the company’s 43rd American Spanish Dance & Music Festival featuring performances and classes reflecting the elegance and passion of Spain’s dance, music and culture.

The June 14-16 “Flamenco Passion” performances will feature more than 40 dancers and musicians, including guest artists, in a fusion of classical, folkloric, traditional, contemporary and Flamenco styles. Joining this year’s roster of artists: choreographer/dancers Carmela Greco, daughter of the legendary José Greco, Carlos Rodriguez and José Barrios; plus musicians Paco Fonta (Flamenco singer and guitarist), Antonio Gabarri Jimenez and David Chiriboga (Flamenco guitarists) and Javier Saume Mazzei (percussionist).

The program for all three performances includes the following:

Four new company works:

• “Pasion Oculta” (Hidden Passion) by Ensemble Español Artistic Director, Irma Suárez Ruiz (World Premiere)

• “La Piel Desnuda” (Naked Skin) by Guest Artist, Carlos Rodriguez (World Premiere)

• “Aires de Cádiz” by Guest Artist Carmela Greco (World Premiere)

• “Triana” by Guest Artist José Barrios (World Premiere);

Three new Flamenco Guest Artists’ solos:

• “Rondeña” by Guest Artist Carmela Greco (World Premiere)

• “Seda” (Silk) by Guest Artist Carlos Rodriguez (World Premiere)

• “Diálogo” (Dialog) by Guest Artist José Barrios (U.S. Premiere);

...and signature works by Komaiko:

• “Bolero” (1993), Friday June 14 only.

• “Ecos de España” (1983), Saturday, June 15 only.

• “Danza Del Fuego” (Dance of Fire) (1979), Sunday June 16 only.

• “Zapateado” (Dance of the Shoe) (1976). All three performances.

“Flamenco Passion: A Tribute to Dame Libby Komaiko” comes to the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, located at 9501 Skokie Blvd. in Skokie June 14-16. Performances are Friday, June 14 and Saturday, June 15 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, June 16 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20-$50 and are on sale now. Special event Friday, June 14: Meet the Artists VIP Pre-Opening Night Reception in the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts 2nd level, $65. To purchase tickets and for more information visit northshorecenter.org or call 847.673.6300.