Spanish dance has a rich and diverse history, incorporating many different styles and influences. In the last century, Spanish dance has undergone significant changes, reflecting the social, cultural, and political transformations that have taken place in Spain during this period.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Spanish dance was dominated by classical ballet and the traditional regional dances of Spain, such as the jota, sevillanas, and fandangos. However, a new movement emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, known as the ‘Generación del 27’, which sought to revitalize Spanish culture and embrace its unique identity.
Generación del 27
This movement had a significant impact on Spanish dance, leading to the emergence of a new style known as ‘Escuela Bolera’, which combined classical ballet with traditional Spanish dance. This style was characterized by its graceful and elegant movements, and it became popular throughout Spain.
Flamenco Nuevo movement
In the 1950s and 1960s, Spanish dance underwent another transformation, with the emergence of the ‘flamenco nuevo’ movement. This movement was led by flamenco artists such as Antonio Gades and Carmen Amaya, who sought to modernize flamenco dance and make it more accessible to wider audiences.
Flamenco nuevo was characterized by its dramatic and emotional movements, incorporating elements of jazz, modern dance, and even rock and roll. This movement helped to bring flamenco dance to the forefront of the Spanish cultural scene, and it continues to be popular today.
In the latter part of the 20th century, Spanish dance became more diverse and eclectic, incorporating elements of contemporary dance, hip-hop, and other global influences. Many contemporary dance companies emerged during this time, such as the Compañía Nacional de Danza and the Ballet Nacional de España, which continue to be influential today.
Overall, the history of Spanish dance in the last century has been characterized by constant evolution and experimentation, as artists seek to embrace their cultural heritage while also pushing the boundaries of traditional forms. Spanish dance continues to be a vibrant and dynamic art form, with a rich history and a bright future.