John Anson Ford Amphitheater | Intimate Excellent

Mizuho Sato (photo by Bruce Bisenz)

by Ernest Kearney

Those who frequent my site will be well aquainted with my boundless enthusiasm for the “Forever Flamenco!” series presented monthly at the Fountain Theatre. If you’d care to see from where this passion first arose, then your chance is coming. “Forever Flamenco!”, the once a year“Juerga”, returns to the Ford Amphitheatre on Saturday, August 9^th.

For those never exposed to flamenco this is an opportunity of the rarest sort. Imagine attending a single night at the theatre and being treated to the talents of Olivier, Gielgud, Vanessa Redgrave, Ian McKellen and Judi Dench. Or imagine going to a concert and seeing on the same stage Judy Garland, Elvis Presley, The Stones, Kurt Cobain, Lady GaGa and Chuck Berry.

This is what “Forever Flamenco! at the Ford” offers: a gathering of the greatest artists across the generations.

Manuel Gutierrez (photo by Bruce Bisenz)

Among those featured this year will be Manuel Gutiérrez, who began dancing flamenco at the age of four and was winning flamenco dance competitions by eight. Gutiérrez is the soul of “coraje” or spontaneity and to watch him perform is to realize that nothing expresses the masculine vigor in dance as flamenco does. You come to believe that when he dances the world must tremble under his feet.

Yaelisa is a dancer who can stake out a small portion of the stage and through her “cierre” (dance steps) bring forth a “desgarro”, “wildness” that is a tempest of tempo.

Mizuho Sato is a Japanese-born dancer and a testament to the global appeal of flamenco. When she comes on stage be prepared for magic.

Jason McGuire, “El Rubio”, does not “play” the guitar – he dominates it, and performs with the dynamism you’d expect of “The Big Bang”.

Yaelisa and Jason McGuire

Cantaor Antonio de Jerez is a talent one feels grateful for having seen. When singing, one hears the history of Spain in his voice.

Nowhere can you find grace more infused with power, nor the sorrow of the human condition expressed with greater perfection than in the music and dance of flamenco. All art forms evolved outward from ancient origins, and, sadly, in that process which serves to define their artistry that primal potency, the intensity of their source, is lost.

Not so with flamenco. It has held onto its dark and tragic history, and that pain which breathes life into the cante jondo, the grand song, is as profound today as it was three centuries ago.

Roberto Amaral (photo by Sari Makki Phillips)

This year’s audience is also gathering to pay homage to one of flamenco’s most esteemed figures Roberto Amaral. In a career spanning half a century, Amaral has excelled in every facet of flamenco – dancer, singer, choreographer, composer and teacher.

He has performed with the greats of flamenco such as José Greco and José Antonio as well as Santana, Jethro Tull and David Bowie.

The Ford’s open air stage, with the stars on display above, makes it the perfect venue for an evening profuse with this city’s rich history, for The flamenco baile (dance) and cante (song) were part of California dating back to the 1700’s and the ranchos of the Spanish crown. The John Anson Ford Amphitheatre was originally built in 1920, by author and playwright Christine Wetherill Stevenson who saw the rugged beauty of the Cahuenga Pass as the ideal setting for her “The Pilgrimage Play”, a work on the life of Jesus “transcribed from the Scriptures”.

The play was performed there yearly until the original wooden structure was destroyed by fire in 1929. In 1931 the structure was rebuilt, designed in the style of “ancient Judaic architecture”. Though “The Pilgrimage Play” performances were ended in 1964, the Ford Amphitheatre continues to resemble the gates of ancient Jerusalem.

Antonio Triana

The LA Weekly has hailed this event as “the rarest of treats…for both connoisseur and novice”, and I couldn’t agree more. But where they call the Fountain Theatre’s Forever Flamenco! series “L.A.’s most significant venue for flamenco”, I say rather, it is flamenco’s most significant venue in all of North America. With the Ford show, the most diverse and cosmopolitan audience in the world is given the opportunity of experiencing not just the star of flamenco, but its legends.

Forever Flamenco at the Ford SAT AUG 9th (323) 461-3673

Posted in arts organizations, Dance, dancer, flamenco, Fountain Theatre, non-profit organization, performing arts, singer, Theater, theatre

Tagged Antonio de Jerez, Antonio Triana, Ernest Kearney, Flamenco, flamenco guitar, Forever Flamenco, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, Jason McGuire, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, Los Angeles, Manuel Gutierrez, Mizuho Sato, performing arts, Roberto Amaral, theater, theatre, Yaelisa

On location at The Ford for the TV shoot.

Lights! Camera! Action! Two dancers from our upcoming Forever Flamenco at the Ford  will be featured on an upcoming TV episode of Eye On LA. Flamenco dancers Alexandra Zermeno and Ryan Zermeno taped the episode on the outdoor stage at the Ford Amphitheater on Friday, July 11, with Eye on LA host and senior producer Tina Malave.  The Forever Flamenco at the Ford episode of Eye on LA airs Saturday, July 26th, at 6:30pm on ABC channel 7 in Los Angeles. 

The popular TV program highlights new and exciting things to see and do in Los Angeles.  This new recently-shot TV segment highlights our thrilling Forever Flamenco at the Ford on Saturday, Aug 9th, celebrating flamenco in Los Angeles and honoring LA flamenco pioneer Roberto Amaral.   

Alexandra and Ryan Zermeno had a great time shooting the TV episode on stage at the Ford. Emmy-winning TV host Tina Malave was charming with a playful zest for fun, dressed in flamenco dance attire. Alexandra showed Tina some basic dance steps and hand/arm movements. Tina did her best with her own enthusiastic flair and good-natured spirit.  Fun was had by all. Alexandra and Ryan were able to share with Tina their excitement about appearing on stage with the all-star flamenco line-up at the Ford on Aug 9th.  

Forever Flamenco at the Ford is the most prestigious flamenco event of the year in Los Angeles. International, national and local artists come to the Ford to perform in this magical one-night event. And audiences flock in from all over the region to savor the passion of the art form and the beauty of the gorgeous outdoor venue on a warm summer night.

Last year’s Flamenco Gala sold out. This year’s event is already selling fast. Get tickets at FordTheatres.org or call 323-GO-1-FORD (323-461-3673.  For VIP Tickets (the best seats in the best section, includes private catered reception) call the Fountain Theatre at (323) 663-1525 or go to FountainTheatre.com  

Photos from the ‘Eye on LA’ TV Shoot

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Posted in Arts, arts organizations, Dance, dancer, flamenco, Fountain Theatre, performing arts, singer, Theater, theatre

Tagged Alexandra Zermeno, arts organizations, Deborah Lawlor, Eye on LA, Flamenco, flamenco dancing, flamenco guitar, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, Los Angeles, performing arts, Roberto Amaral, Ryan Zermeno, Tina Malave

Flamenco dancer Yaelisa.

It’s back! The Fountain Theatre returns to the beautiful John Anson Ford Amphitheatre with an all-star line-up of local, national and international flamenco artists to celebrate Forever Flamenco and honor LA flamenco dancer/choreographer/teacher Roberto Amaral. Forever Flamenco at the Ford  is the premiere flamenco event of the year in Los Angeles. Under the artistic direction of renowned flamenco dancer Yaelisa and guitarist Antonio Triana and produced by Deborah Lawlor, the Gala Event takes place on Saturday, August 9th at 8:30 pm at the Ford Theatres in Hollywood.

Last year’s Forever Flamenco at the Ford was a thrilling success and sold-out the 1200-seat venue. Tony Frankel of Stage and Cinema declared it “Breathtaking! Explosive! Thrilling! Sexy and Sensuous!”

Manuel Gutierrez

We are holding 100 of the BEST SEATS – center section, down front, up close and personal  — and offering them only to our private Fountain VIP patrons.  These prime seats are not available to the public. With these Fountain VIP tickets you get:

• The best seats  in the house: down front, up close, center section
• Exclusive VIP pass to the private pre-show catered party with the artists
• Festive hand-crafted gift bag with free flamenco swag

These prime VIP TICKETS are limited and will sell out.   Click here to order online. Or call the Fountain box office (323) 663-1525. Note: These VIP tickets sold by the Fountain Theatre are tax deductible. 

Since 1990, the dancers, musicians and singers of Forever Flamenco have been delighting Fountain Theatre audiences with the intensity, precision and exhilaration for which flamenco is known. Now Forever Flamenco returns to the outdoor stage at the Ford Theatres with this passionate expression of Spanish culture in a tribute to LA Flamenco pioneer Amaral.

Forever Flamenco at the Ford will be a once-in-a-lifetime gala event gathering some of flamenco’s finest artists together on stage, including dancers Fanny Ara, Manuel Gutierrrez, Pamela Lourant, Timo Nuñez, Mizuho Sato, Yaelisa and Ryan Zermeno; singers Antonio de Jerez and Jesus Montoya; guitarists Adam del Monte, Jason McGuire “El Rubio”, Jose Tanaka and Antonio Triana; and percussionist Joey Heredia. Watch for more surprise artists, as well as a few guests and dignitaries honoring the accomplishments and contributions made by Amaral to the cultural landscape of Los Angeles.

Roberto Amaral (photo by Sari Makki-Phillips)

Sari Makki-Phillips

Roberto Amaral began his professional career at the age of 17, and has since achieved worldwide acclaim as a dancer, choreographer, singer, composer, artist and master teacher.

From 1968 through 1976, he enjoyed success as principal dancer and guest artist with many of the world’s foremost Spanish dance companies. With the companies of Jose Greco, Jose Antonio, Ciro, Alberto Lorca, Rafael de Cordoba and Antonio Ruiz, Roberto toured extensively throughout Europe and the Americas.  Also during this early period of his career, he laid groundbreaking musical history as co-founder, co-lead vocalist, writer, arranger and choreographer of the legendary band CARMEN. It was the first musical group to ever combine flamenco with rock/pop music both audibly and visually, performing alongside such musical luminaries as David Bowie, Jethro Tull, ELO and Santana.   As a television performer, Roberto has been a featured dancer and choreographer on numerous programs, most noteworthy being The Academy Awards (twice), The Tonight Show, The Barry Manilow Special and the Madrid based Antologia de la Zarzuela. In 1981, he  collaborated with choreographer Walter Painter on the television special Lynda Carter’s Celebration. For this collaboration Roberto received the prestigious EMMY AWARD honoring his contributions as flamenco consultant and lead dancer.  Most recently in 2012, he and renowned choreographer Liz Imperio collaborated on an exciting flamenco number which was featured on both the tv shows Q Viva and The Ellen Show. In 1977, Roberto formed his first of several dance companies, each of which have greatly influenced the pulse of flamenco and classical Spanish dance in Southern California for the past 37 years. The critically acclaimed companies Danzas de Espana, Ballet Espanol de Los Angeles, Espana Clasica and Fuego Flamenco are all companies Roberto has conceived, artistically directed and starred in.  As a result, he has produced, staged, designed costumes, sets and lights for, and choreographed over 500 dance solos, ensemble pieces, flamenco ballets, conceptual suites and production numbers.  In his nearly 50 year career, Roberto has been privileged to perform in many of the world’s great concert halls, theatres, arenas and nightclubs.  In the United States they include California’s  Hollywood Bowl, Greek Theatre, Forum, Dorothy Chandler Pavillion, Ahmanson Theatre, San Francisco Palace of Fine Arts ;  New York’s Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden ;  Las Vegas’ Caesar’s Palace, Sahara and Hilton International.  In Europe he has performed at London’s Victoria Theatre, Paris’ Olympia Theatre, Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, Madrid’s Teatro de La Zarzuela and Milan’s La Scala Opera House.  In 1990 Roberto began a critically acclaimed 7 year run of performances at the Fountain Theatre in Hollywood. It was during this time that many California Flamenco stars graced the Fountain Theatre stage alongside Roberto in his landmark company Fuego Flamenco.  Also during this period, Roberto choreographed and worked alongside Deborah Lawlor on her prestigious theatrical accomplishment “The Women of Guernica” as well as the Fountain Theatre filmed documentary L.A. Ole!.

Roberto is and will always be known as a visionary, with a trademark style of dance, music and art that he wants to be regarded and remembered as unique, innovative and impressionable.  As he continually strives to find new and refreshing approaches to his artistic creativity, he has also found an enormous sense of gratification and pride in his dedication to teach and mentor others. Many of his former students and proteges have gone on to become stars in their own right. This commitment  to dance garnered Roberto the first ever Lifetime Achievement Award from the Santa Barbara Flamenco Society in 2004. Roberto still looks forward to many more years of creating new projects and to the continued training and nurturing of his current and future students.

John Anson Ford Amphitheatre

Forever Flamenco at the Ford takes place on Saturday, August 9th. Doors open for picnicking at 6:30 pm and the show starts at 8:30 pm. Reserved seating is $50 and $75. Purchase tickets on or before August 2 and save $5. Tickets are available at www.FordTheatres.org or 323 461-3673 (323 GO 1-FORD). For Fountain VIP Tickets call (323) 663-1525 or visit www.FountainTheatre.com.

Posted in Arts, arts organizations, Dance, dancer, flamenco, Fountain Theatre, Music, non-profit organization, performing arts, singer, Theater, theatre

Tagged Adam del Monte, Antonio de Jerez, Antonio Triana, Deborah Lawlor, Fanny Ara, Flamenco, flamenco dancing, flamenco guitar, flamenco music, Forever Flamenco, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, Jason McGuire, Jesus Montoya, Joey Heredia, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, Jose Tanaka, Los Angeles, Manuel Gutierrez, Mizuho, Pamela Lourant, performing arts, Roberto Amaral, Ryan Zermeno, theater, theatre, Timo Nunez, VIP tickets, Yaelisa

Manuel Gutierrez at ‘Forever Flamenco at the Ford’

If you were fortunate to be at our summer gala concert Forever Flamenco at the Ford at the 1200-seat John Anson Ford Amphitheatre, then you remember the explosive dancer Manuel Gutierrez. His show-stopping passionate dance style was unforgettable.  Well, good news. He’s back! Manuel Gutierrez will now be joining the already stellar lineup of Forever Flamenco this Sunday, November 10 at 8pm , at the intimate Fountain Theatre.

The show this Sunday night, led by the artistic direction of percussionist Joey Heredia, was already promising to be exciting and innovative with the inclusion of jazz musicians Pablo Medina (piano) and Oskar Cartaya (bass).  Joining them will be dancer Mizuho Sato, guitarist Kai Narezo, singer Antonio de Jerez and singer/guitarist Jose Garcia. Tickets are going fast. You don’t want to miss this one! 

Now in its 11th smash year, Forever Flamenco is a Los Angeles phenomenon.

“Once a month at the Fountain Theatre, Deborah Lawlor presents Forever Flamenco, an assemblage of the greatest flamenco artists anywhere.”   – Stage and Cinema 

Percussionist Joey Heredia.

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Posted in Arts, arts organizations, Dance, dancer, flamenco, Fountain Theatre, Music, performing arts, singer, Theater, theatre

Tagged Antonio de Jerez, Deborah Lawlor, Flamenco, flamenco dancing, flamenco guitar, flamenco music, Forever Flamenco, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, Joey Heredia, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, Jose Garcia, Kai Narezo, Los Angeles, Manuel Gutierrez, Mizuho Sato, Oskar Cartava, Pablo Medina, performing arts, theater, theatre

by Tony Frankel

While classic and modern dance seem to be continually reinventing themselves, Flamenco remains a bedrock of the moving arts. As Forever Flamenco! at the Ford proved last Saturday, age and body type have nothing to do with the soulful expressiveness inherent in this traditional dance form.

Maria Bermudez

There are many forms of dance and song that emerged as a celebration of life amidst human suffering, but surely Flamenco thrillingly stands out as an example of such an art form. There are moments in the music that clearly reflect Indian, Islamic and Moorish influence. Some Flamenco music styles (palos) have been attributed to Jewish influences, as the Jews were firmly ensconced in Iberia since Roman times. And Andalusia, home to Flamenco, is in the south of the Iberian Peninsula.

“But who wants a history lesson?” asked Artistic Director Maria Bermúdez to the sold out crowd at the Ford Amphitheater. This evening was about celebrating Flamenco and to honor Deborah Lawlor, founder of the Fountain Theatre, where Forever Flamenco! plays once a month. Bermúdez, who has an uncanny ability to gather unparalleled artists, presented a line-up of local, national and international artists for a sexy and captivating evening.

Manuel Guiterrez

The explosive energy created by dancer Timo Nuñez at the start was, as they say, a hard act to follow. In his shiny red shoes, this tall and elegant artist began casually, but soon offered dynamic footwork that sounded like firecrackers. Then he would do a studly stroll, allowing the dance to breathe, often lifting his shirt to show a bit of skin. Sometimes, this graceful storyteller of dance stared at us as an egret looks for a fish in a lake. Although I don’t remember ever seeing such a hunky egret.

Equally thrilling was Manuel Gutierrez, who opened the second act and emulated a bullfighter. He wasn’t showing off, yet he displayed a crackling tap and pedal pyrotechnics the likes of which confirmed why Flamenco is so compelling. So fiery and passionate was Gutierrez that my companion said afterwards, “That’s it. I’m booking us on the next flight to Seville.”

Alejandro Granados

The ridiculously sexy and sensuous Fanny Ara (think Salma Hayek) offered us a dance which was defiant, seductive, searching and scorching hot – and WAY too short. Mizuho Sato was another classic beauty who I wish had more stage time. All of the guitarists, whether jazzy or classical, were some of the best I have ever heard. Jason McGuire accompanied Ms. Ara with smoldering fast fingerwork that was a brilliant combination of new age work, á la William Ackerman, and traditional Flamenco. I can’t believe all of that music came out of one guitar. Likewise Jose Tanaka, who overlayed his work with a soulful yearning and accessible dissonance. The other guitarists – Antonio Triana, Ben Woods and Adam del Monte – were ably accompanied by the extraordinary percussionist Joey Heredia.

Alejandro Granados was a man drunk with life and passion. Somewhat nattily dressed in red pants, Granados looked like he could be a seaside merchant or a pawn shop owner. But looks and age have nothing to do with the spirit of Flamenco. Audience members actually began to shout as this older gentleman executed a timeless combination of dance artistry and comedic storytelling, giving us more character than an O’Neill drama.

It may be politically incorrect to mention a woman’s age or body type, but whether we are supposed to say Rubenesque, full-figured or otherwise, there were some women on stage whose magnificence proved that anyone can master Flamenco. Lourdes Rodriguez, with spangles around her waist, brought whimsy, silliness and celebration to her dance (she was the one I most wanted to run up on stage to dance with). Linda Vega’s work was so admirable that I was shocked to discover that this was Ms. Vega after knee surgery. Well done! Most impressive was Yaelisa, a middle-aged woman who proved that time cannot quell the fiery gipsy spirit. This seasoned performer with amazing rhythm was humorous, expressive, joyful and reflective, vacillating from a spunky spirit to a trance-like seduction.

Fanny Ara

The vocalists were no ordinary singers; to the untrained ear, it may seem like they are struggling to hold a note, but that wailing and fluttering is the evolved style of the suffering gipsy, and, at times, sounded eerily like the plaintive yowling of nomadic Native American tribes or the spiritual yearnings of Jewish Sephardic music. Our powerful singers were Jose Cortes, Ana de los Reyes, Pelé de los Reyes and Ismael de la Rosa.

Timo Nunez

In some of the group numbers, it was difficult to ascertain what was choreographed and what was spontaneous, but all of these impeccable artists worked together seamlessly, occasionally eyeing each other’s body parts (feet, hands, hips, eyes) as they performed with rhythmic intention – no differently than the most passionate lover looks upon a paramour during sex.¿Hace calor aqui? I would have preferred a stronger finish in some of the sets, as dancers just casually strolled away. But come to think of it, I’ve had some lovers do that, too.

The free-for-all in the finale included one of the most captivating moments captured on stage when four young girls executed some flawless dancing in colorful Flamenco flocked skirts. These artists who promise to bring Flamenco into the future were more than adorable – they were breathtaking and inspiring. Then again, so was the entire evening.

photos © Optimage Photography

Tony Frankel writes for Stage and Cinema

Posted in Arts, arts organizations, dancer, Deaf, flamenco, Fountain Theatre, Music, performing arts, singer, Theater, theatre

Tagged Adam del Monte, Alejandro Granados, Deborah Lawlor, Fanny Ara, Flamenco, flamenco dancing, flamenco music, Forever Flamenco, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, Jason McGuire, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, Jose Cortes, Jose Tanaka, Linda Vega, Lourdes Rodriguez, Manuel Gutierrez, Maria Bermudez, Mizuho Sato, Pele de los Reyes, performing arts, Roberto Amaral, theater, theatre, Timo Nunez, Yaelisa

Barbara Goodhill

The Fountain Theatre is pleased to welcome Barbara Goodhill as its Director of Development. Barbara will guide and oversee fundraising and marketing for the Fountain and advise the award-winning theatre on other organizational goals. She played an important role in the Fountain’s recent Cyrano in New York fundraising campaign (which exceeded its fundraising goal) and the very successful Forever Flamenco at the Ford event on June 15 at the Ford Amphitheatre.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Barbara Goodhill is a respected development and marketing professional with broad-based experience in the non-profit sector. Theater has been a life-long passion for Ms. Goodhill, who began her career as a teacher and an actor, and is a long-time subscriber to The Fountain Theatre.  Her most recent staff position was as Director of Advancement at Inside Out Community Arts, an award-winning non-profit that empowers underserved youth through theater-arts based programs.  Prior senior staff positions include at Sinai Akiba Academy and PS#1 Elementary School. Her efforts at these organizations resulted in professional awards, significant growth in revenue, compelling brand building, outstanding special events and highly successful marketing and communication campaigns. Also active as a volunteer on Boards of Directors, Ms Goodhill brings a high level of expertise and sincere dedication to every project.  Barbara received her B.A. from UC Berkeley in English and History and attended UCLA’s Masters program in Theatre Arts.

“Barbara has quickly become an important asset to the Fountain Theatre,” says Fountain co-artistic director Stephen Sachs. “Her energy, determination and expertise has truly ignited and revitalized our fundraising efforts. We’re fortunate to have her with us and look forward to a thrilling new phase of development at the Fountain.”

Welcome, Barbara!

Posted in Arts, arts organizations, Drama, Fountain Theatre, performing arts, Theater, theatre

Tagged arts organizations, Barbara Goodhill, Cyrano in New York, Director of Development, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, fundraising, fundriaising, Inside Out Community Arts, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, Los Angeles, marketing, non-profit arts organization, performing arts, plays, Stephen Sachs, theater, theatre

Guitarist Antonio Triana and dancer Maria Bermudez.

Flamenco artists Maria Bermudez , Antonio Triana and Pele de los Reyes made an early-morning live TV appearance on  Univision KMEX 34 today to promote our upcoming Forever Flamenco at the Ford Gala Concert at the Ford Amphitheatre this Saturday, June 15th at 8:30pm. 

Univision 34, Los Angeles was the first UHF station in southern California, and the first to broadcast in Spanish in Los Angeles. Univision 34, Los Angeles serves the Hispanic community and offers programs that inform Spanish-speaking viewers about local and global events that educate and entertain.

Hailed as “LA’s most significant venue for flamenco” by LA Weekly, the Fountain Theatre returns to the Ford stage after a two year absence, bringing the finest local, national and international flamenco artists to celebrate this passionate expression of Spanish culture. Forever Flamenco’s dancers, musicians and singers have been delighting audiences for years with the intensity, precision and exhilaration for which flamenco is known. This year’s show pays tribute to the founder of the Fountain’s flamenco program, Deborah Lawlor, a Los Angeles icon and ardent supporter of the art form for more than two decades. 

The Forever Flamenco All-Star line-up includes: Vanessa Abalos * Roberto Amaral * Fanny Ara * Maria Bermudez * José Cortes * Alejandro Granados * Manuel Gutierrez * Joey Heredia * Jason McGuire * Adam del Monte * Timo Nuñez * Rocio Ponce * Ana de los Reyes * Pele de los Reyes * Ismael de la Rosa * Lourdes Rodriguez * Mizuho Sato * Jose Tanaka * Antonio Triana * Linda Vega * Ben Woods * Yaelisa.

Enjoy These Photos from Today’s Live TV Appearance

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Posted in Arts, arts organizations, Dance, dancer, flamenco, Music, performing arts, singer, Theater, theatre

Tagged Adam del Monte, Ana de los Reyes, Antonio Triana, Ben Woods, Fanny Ara, Flamenco, flamenco guitar, flamenco music, Ford Theatres, Forever Flamenco, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, Ismael de la Rosa, Jason McGuire, Joey Heredia, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, José Cortes Alejandro Granados, Jose Tanaka, Linda Vega, Los Angeles, Lourdes Rodriguez, Manuel Gutierrez, Maria Bermudez, Mizuho Sato, Pele de los Reyes, Roberto Amaral, Rocio Ponce, Timo Nunez, Univision, Univision 34, Vanessa Abalos, Yaelisa

Maria Bermudez

The Fountain Theatre presents an all-star line-up of local, national and international flamenco artists to celebrate Forever Flamenco!  founder Deborah Lawlor’s 20-year dedication to producing, nurturing and broadening the art form in Los Angeles. Forever Flamenco! at the Ford, under the artistic direction of internationally renowned flamenco dancer Maria Bermudez, takes place on Saturday, June 15 at 8:30 pm at the Ford Theatres in Hollywood.

We have saved the BEST SEATS IN THE HOUSE for you! Our Fountain VIP patrons! Click here for more info! See details below!

Since 1990, the dancers, musicians and singers ofForever Flamenco! have been delighting Fountain Theatre audiences with the intensity, precision and exhilaration for which flamenco is known. NowForever Flamenco! returns to the outdoor stage at the Ford Theatres with this passionate expression of Spanish culture in a tribute to Lawlor.

Fanny Ara

“Forever Flamenco! was born out of Deborah’s love and total immersion into flamenco,” says Bermudez. “Young dancers, up-and-coming dancers, seasoned professionals and international dancers – all of us have all come through Forever Flamenco! at the Fountain. I took my first baby steps there.”

Forever Flamenco! at the Ford will be a once-in-a-lifetime gala event gathering some of flamenco’s finest artists together on stage for the first time, including dancers Fanny Ara, Lakshmi Basile, Maria Bermudez, Alejandro Granados (from Spain), Manuel Gutierrrez, Timo Nuñez,Linda Vega and Yaelisa; singer/dancer Roberto Amaral; singers José Cortez, Ana de los Reyes (from Spain) and Jesus Montoya; singer/composer Pele de los Reyes (from Spain) of the Grammy®-nominated group Navajita Platea; guitarists Adam del Monte, Jason Maguire, Antonio Triana and Ben Woods; and percussionist Joey Heredia. Watch for more surprise artists, as well as a few guests from Bermudez’ flamenco puro company Sonidos Gitanos, which has been presented at the Ford by Lawlor and the Fountain eight times since 1995.

Timo Nunez

Deborah Lawlor

Deborah Lawlor’s Forever Flamenco! series plays monthly to enthusiastic crowds at the Fountain Theatre. She and the Fountain have presented Bermudez and her Sonidos Gitanos/Gypsy Flamenco Company from Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, for eight summer engagements at the Ford – including, in 2010, its new off-shoot, The Chicana Gypsy Project – and in 2007 at the Japan American Theatre. The 2009 Ford season included Forever Flamenco!: LA Olé featuring an all-star cast assembled fromForever Flamenco! at the Fountain. Lawlor began her career as a dancer, choreographer and actor in New York’s “downtown” scene. After living in South India for five years, where she was involved in the initial development of the international township of Auroville, she created two full-length outdoor dance/theater pieces celebrating the community. She spent the next 10 years in Australia and France studying ancient cultures of India and Egypt and translating several books in these fields from French into English. Returning to the U.S. in 1986, she became deeply involved in the intimate theater scene and, in 1990, she and Stephen Sachs co-founded the Fountain Theatre, which is now in its 23rd season of theatrical and dance events. Lawlor is responsible for the Fountain’s extensive dance involvement. The 1995 season included The Women of Guernica, Lawlor’s flamenco-based adaptation of Euripides’ The Trojan Women, which she also directed. She directed two one-act plays by Tennessee Williams and created and directed three full-evening dance-theater pieces for the Fountain:Declarations: Love Letters of the Great Romantics; The Path of Love, which she also directed in South India; and the dance opera, The Song of Songs, with music by Al Carmines. Actors Equity Association honored Lawlor with its Diversity Award, for her dedication to presenting work at the Fountain that is culturally diverse.

Maria Bermudez

Considered to be one of the foremost international flamenco artists in the world today, Bermudez resides in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, the “birthplace” of flamenco. There, she has worked with renowned artists such as Juana del Pipa, Andres Peña, Antonio El Pipa, Alejandro Granados, Navajita Platea, El Capullo and many others. She was honored by the artists of the city for her relentless dedication in exposing the artistry of this region. Bermudez’ outstanding and critically acclaimed performances include the Hollywood Bowl, Ford Amphitheatre, Fountain Theater and the Music Center in Los Angeles; Central Park, Lincoln Center and the Joyce Theater in New York City; the Teatro Palácio das Artes in Brazil; Peña Cernicalos, Los Gallos and Teatro Lope de Vega and Festival de Jerez in Spain; guest appearances with the Santa Cecilia California; and numerous venues throughout the world. Most recently she formed Chicana Gypsy Project which draws on her Mexican-American heritage and her immersion into Adulucian Gypsy culture. Her life and career have inspired the award-winning documentary film, Streets of Flamenco.

Forever Flamenco! at the Ford takes place on Saturday, June 15. Doors open for picnicking at 6:30 pm and the show starts at 8:30 pm. Reserved seating is $50 and $75.Purchase tickets on or before June 8 and save $5. Tickets are available at www.FordTheatres.org or 323 461-3673 (for non-visual media 323 GO 1-FORD). 

We are holding 100 of the BEST SEATS — center section, down front, up close and personal  — and are offering them only to you, our private Fountain VIP patrons.  These prime seats are not available to the public. With these VIP tickets you get:

• The best seats in the house: down front, up close, center section
• Exclusive VIP pass to the private pre-show catered party with the artists
• Festive hand-crafted gift bag with free flamenco swag

These prime VIP TICKETS are only available through the Fountain Theatre!    Order Now!  Or call the Fountain box office (323) 663-1525.

Posted in Arts, arts organizations, Dance, dancer, flamenco, Fountain Theatre, performing arts, singer

Tagged Adam del Monte, Alejandro Granados, Ana de los Reyes, Antonio Triana, Ben Woods, Deborah Lawlor, Fanny Ara, Flamenco, flamenco dancing, flamenco guitar, flamenco music, Ford Theatres, Forever Flamenco, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, Jason Maguire, Jesus Montoya, Joey Heredia, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, Jose Cortes, Linda Vega, Los Angeles, Manuel Gutierrrez, Maria Bermudez, Navajita Platea, Pele de los Reyes, performing arts, Roberto Amaral, Sonidos Gitanos, Timo Nunez, Yaelisa

Maria Bermudez

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the video promo we shot on Saturday with internationally renowned flamenco dancer Maria “Cha Cha” Bermudez to promote our upcoming Forever Flamenco at the Ford gala event at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre on Saturday, June 15th.

Hailed as “LA’s most significant venue for flamenco” by LA Weekly, the Fountain Theatre returns to the Ford stage after a two year absence, bringing the finest local, national and international flamenco artists to celebrate this passionate expression of Spanish culture. Forever Flamenco’s dancers, musicians and singers have been delighting audiences for years with the intensity, precision and exhilaration for which flamenco is known. This year’s show pays tribute to the founder of the Fountain’s flamenco program, Deborah Lawlor, a Los Angeles icon and ardent supporter of the art form for more than two decades.

“Forever Flamenco was born out of Deborah’s love and total immersion into Flamenco,” says Maria Bermudez. “Young dancers, up-and-coming dancers have been given opportunities, as well as seasoned professionals and international dancers, have all come through Forever Flamenco at the Fountain. Me being one of them. I had my first baby steps there. I have to say, the Fountain has been one of my most cherished performance spaces for Flamenco.”

Forever Flamenco at the Ford will be a once-in-a-lifetime gala event gathering some of the finest international, national and local flamenco artists together on stage for the first time. Artists include Jesus Alvarez, Roberto Amaral, Fanny Ara, Lakshmi Basille, Maria Bermudez, Jose Cortes, Adam Del Monte, Manuel Guiterez, Jason MacGuire, Jesus Montoya, Timo Nunez, Domingo Ortega, Jose Tanaka, Antonio Triana, Linda Vega, Ben Woods, Yaelisa and more (lineup subject to change).

Behind-the-Scenes with Maria Bermudez

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Forever Flamenco at the Ford  Sat June 15  (323) 461-3673 MORE

Posted in Arts, arts organizations, Dance, dancer, flamenco, Fountain Theatre, Music, performing arts, singer

Tagged Adam del Monte, Antonio Triana, Ben Woods, Deborah Lawlor, Domingo Ortega, Fanny Ara, Flamenco, flamenco dancing, flamenco guitar, flamenco music, Forever Flamenco, Forever Flamenco at the Ford, Fountain Theatre, Jason MacGuire, Jesus Alvarez, Jesus Montoya, John Anson Ford Amphitheater, Jose Cortes, Jose Tanaka, Lakshmi Basille, Linda Vega, Los Angeles, Manuel Guiterez, Maria Bermudez, performing arts, Roberto Amaral, Timo Nunez, Yaelisa