Local library hosts flamenco performance for cultural education
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Library-goers were given a special treat Saturday morning: song and dance.
Artists from 45 Grados Flamenco, or 45 Degrees Flamenco, came by the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library for a show about dance and music with influences from Spain and the Americas.
“The library...invited us to come out and do a performance about ida y vuelta song forms, which are song forms that were from the Americas originally, came over to Spain, were part of Spanish popular music, and then woven into flamenco,” said Melinda Hedgecorth of 45 Grados Flamenco.
The performances were also accompanied by presentations that shared Hispanic culture with a community that had previously shared so much with the performers.
“This performance was created for the people of Topeka, specifically because of their stories, because of the culture that they shared with us,” said Hedgecorth. “I started looking into all these song forms and put together this piece so we could also talk more about Mexico, so we could also talk more about Cuba, and then the Americas just in general.”
For some, this exploration of culture reminded them of home.
“We have that fandango thing also shared in our dance in the Philippines that we were taught when we were young to dance,” said Portia Jurado, an audience member. “So that gives me a refreshing memory about our dances in the Philippines.”
This educational exercise also gave the artists an excuse to let loose.
“My favorite piece from today was probably the very last one. That’s the newest piece we’ve done together, Colombianas. It’s very upbeat. Song form in fours, it’s just, it’s just really fun, and everybody in the whole group gets to play on it. I think that’s probably why it’s my favorite.”
One viewer believed the performance was more than just an interesting time.
“It’s a form of dialogue for peace, culture, and a sense of community.”
45 Grados Flamenco does tours across Kansas and Missouri, along with dance classes. You can learn more about the group here.
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