Tablao Flamenco is an intimate and traditional setting for presenting the interaction of cante (song), baile (dance), and toque (guitar). Performing on a percussive wood platform called a tablao (tablado), artists often improvise music and movement to establish new styles and expressions. Tablao is one of the most important forms of flamenco presentation in Spain and beyond, a place to celebrate both experimentation and cultural heritage. Flamenco Tucsonense cultivates the art form here in Tucson to share a unique voice in the flamenco world.

Performing Artists:

Misael Barraza (guitarra) – Winner of numerous international guitar competitions, Misael is from Sonora, Mexico and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Musical Arts from the University of Arizona.

Olivia Rojas (cante) – From El Paso, Olivia is the Co-Director of Flamenco Por La Vida; she has studied music for over 15 years and is Arizona’s premiere flamenco singer.

Jason Martinez (cajon/baile) – From Albuquerque, New Mexico, an American hub of flamenco art, Jason has studied percussion and dance for more than 20 years. He was an original member of Yjastros: The American Flamenco Repertory Company, and teaches flamenco in Tucson, AZ.

Melani “Mele” Martinez (baile) – With more than 35 years of dance training, Mele is a Tucson native and nationally recognized flamenco artist. She was an original member of Yjastros: The American Flamenco Repertory Company and teaches flamenco in Tucson, AZ.