Welcome to Nochebuena Flamenca
Flamenco is a living tradition made up of many palos—distinct musical and dance forms, each with its own rhythm, character, and emotional landscape.
Inspired by the zambomba celebrations of Andalucía, Nochebuena Flamenca brings together song, dance, and community in a shared holiday experience. Below, you’ll find brief introductions to the styles featured in tonight’s program, along with insight into the creative process and artists who bring each piece to life.
Understanding Tonight’s Program
En un Canasto
Musical Opening
A traditional Andalusian Christmas song commonly sung during zambomba gatherings. The lyrics reference the journey to Bethlehem and include everyday imagery typical of flamenco holiday songs, blending devotion with popular tradition.
Fandangos de Huelva
Group Dance
Fandangos de Huelva originate from southwestern Andalucía and are known for their lively rhythm and melodic singing. The letras often reference towns, landscapes, and regional identity, allowing dancers to express both joy and nostalgia.
Choreography: Claudia Pizarro
This choreography was learned as part of Casa Triana Flamenco’s Fall Semester session over a 12-week period.
Martinete con Bastón
Group Dance
Martinete is one of flamenco’s oldest forms and is traditionally sung without guitar accompaniment. Its rhythm is linked to blacksmith work songs and is characterized by strength, intensity, and grounded movement.
Choreography: Claudia Pizarro
This choreography was learned as part of Casa Triana Flamenco’s Fall Semester session over a 12-week period.
Niño de Belén
Musical Interlude
A traditional Christmas song about the birth of Jesus, commonly sung at Andalusian holiday celebrations. The lyrics include devotional imagery and are often performed collectively in festive gatherings.
Bamberas
Group Dance
Bamberas originated from popular songs sung while pushing a swing and were later incorporated into flamenco. In dance, they emphasize lyrical movement and musical phrasing, often following a structure related to bulerías.
Choreography: Claudia Pizarro
This choreography was learned as part of Casa Triana Flamenco’s Fall Semester session over a 12-week period.
Agua Fresca
Group Dance
A festive piece based on popular song traditions associated with flamenco and Christmas repertoire. The lyrics reference water, travel, and everyday life, contributing to its light and rhythmic character.
Choreography: Claudia Pizarro
This choreography was learned as part of Casa Triana Flamenco’s Fall Semester session over a 12-week period.
Jaleos Extremeños
Group Dance
Jaleos Extremeños come from the region of Extremadura and are closely related to bulerías. They are rhythmically driven and energetic, highlighting footwork, group coordination, and musical dialogue.
Choreography: Claudia Pizarro
This choreography was learned as part of Casa Triana Flamenco’s Fall Semester session over a 12-week period.
Alumbra el Camino
Musical Interlude
A narrative Christmas song that recounts the journey to Bethlehem. The repeated references to the moon symbolize guidance and light during the night of Christmas Eve.
Tarantos
Solo Dance – Claudia Pizarro
Taranto originates from the mining regions of Almería and belongs to the cantes de las minas. It is traditionally serious in character and emphasizes grounded movement, weight, and emotional expression.
Choreography: Claudia Pizarro
Sevillanas
Group Dance
Sevillanas are traditional social dances performed at fairs and celebrations throughout Andalucía. Structured in four sections, they emphasize joy, interaction, and community participation.
Fin de Fiesta
Closing Celebration
The program concludes with well-known holiday and popular songs sung collectively, reflecting the tradition of ending Christmas gatherings with shared music and celebration.