UNM student Victoria Otero practices flamenco in front of a plain mirror in an unassuming dance studio in Johnson Center.
Otero's ornate dress creates a fury of scarlet and gold as it flows with grace and precision. Her feet make a loud, clinking sound perfectly in unison with the echo of Spanish maracas in the background.
Otero has taken flamenco classes at UNM. She plans to attend the Festival Flamenco Internacional through June 15 in Albuquerque.
"Of course, I'm not as good as some of the world-renowned flamenco dancers that they'll showcase," she said. "But I try."
In its 22nd year in the Duke City, the festival features a star-studded lineup of world-class flamenco dancers.
Festival Assistant Director Marisol Encinias said the festival imports talent from around the world. Five flamenco companies from Spain, 50 individual dancers from Spain and many others from Mexico, South America and Canada travel to Albuquerque for the 10-day event, she said.
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"The festival has grown to become one of the biggest festivals in the world, outside of Spain," Encinias said. "It's highly recognized worldwide, and it's a special thing that we are lucky to have in Albuquerque."
Performances are held nightly in Rodey Theater, inside Popejoy Hall. The quaint theater creates a feeling of intimacy and closeness between the audience and the performers.
"It is the perfect atmosphere for flamenco," Encinias said.
Performances are held nightly, and ticket prices range from $20 to $175.
"We sold out the first two performances," she said. "Ticket sales are going really well, and we hope to surpass last year's sales."
The lead artist is Antonio Canales, a world-renowned dancer. Canales' most successful show was "Torero," for which he obtained the Premio Nacional de Danza in 1995. Canales was also awarded the Medalla de Andalucía and the Max Prize for the Best Dance Show for "Gitano."
"He is truly a master of the art form," Encinias said. "We are very fortunate to have him this year.... We've been trying to get him for a number of years."
Encinias said this year's event is special because it also features more than 350 students taking classes in the festival.
"It's great that we are not only showcasing some of the top talent in flamenco but also developing it, too," she said.
Encinias said it is important for people to support the festival.
"Flamenco is a special art form unlike many others," she said. "It's not every day that you get the opportunity to see high-quality, world-renowned flamenco dance."
Festival Flamenco Internacional de Albuquerque
Through June 15
Rodey Theater, 3301 Central Ave.
$20 to $175
