Ottawa (July 29, 2007) — Flamenco in a church? That has to be a first. And it’s right here in Ottawa, at Chamberfest. Wrapping up a day of concerts and workshops, El Viento Flamenco takes the stage for its final show at 11:00 pm in The Church of St. John the Evangelist on Tuesday, July 31. One way or another, the atmosphere will be hot, hot, hot!

El Viento Flamenco’s singers and dancers take their inspiration from the more raw, primitive ‘gypsy’ style of stars like Spanish-born Angelita Vargas and Concha Vargas, or Carmen Romero in Canada. One of their characteristics is to dance solo, as opposed to staging choreographies in the balletic style. The varied cultural histories members bring to the troupe are very much in tune with the medley of Latin, American and Middle-Eastern influences Flamenco has absorbed over the past 250 years.

Listening and watching the ensemble, it is difficult to believe they call Halifax ‘home’ these days. Or admit to backgrounds in rock and roll, African drumming and Punk music. Close your eyes, and you are instantly transported to a dusky Taverna with the traditional music and dance of the gypsies (Roma) of southern Spain.

Indeed, El Viento Flamenco brings its own, very distinct voice to this art form which resides subtly – but resolutely – outside of pure Flamenco tradition. The troupe is also characterized by the clear timbre (voz clara) of Sean Harris’s voice. Listen carefully, and one can hear the strains of Armenian folk or Turkish pop tunes in the darkly intense alto voice and fiery dancing of Maral Perk.

The entire troupe pursues Flamenco with a passion – frequently travelling to Seville to steep themselves in Flamenco’s rich cultural tradition and to study with the world’s masters.

Tuesday, July 31. El Viento Flamenco is staging three distinct events.

• Noon. Free outdoor concert. Bank of Canada East Plaza, Wellington at Bank.
• 4:00 pm. Workshop with guitarist Bob Sutherby, who will introduce participants to some of the rhythms, styles and techniques that make flamenco guitar an exciting and distinctive art form. The workshop is open to any nylon-string (not steel-string) guitarist with some background in fingerstyle. All ages are welcome. Free with a Festival Pass, or $20/$10 (adults/students) at the door. Freiman Hall, University of Ottawa.
• 11:00 pm. Flamenco Nights concert. Free with a Festival Pass, or $20/$10 (adults/students) at the door. The Church of St. John the Evangelist, Elgin at Somerset.

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For Chamberfest programme, venue and ticketing information see: www.chamberfest.com

Frances Phillips, (613) 234-8008 Ex. 241; Mob. (613) 852-7848; or email media@chamberfest.com