Spain Focus

The Jeonju Int'l Sori Festival 2025 prepared a special program of “Spain Focus” to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Spain. The “Spain Focus” is significant in that it marks the beginning of international exchange through performances. Lina Tur Bonet & Hong Seunga & Arend Grosfeld will present Baroque-era classical music in a traditional style Korean hanok house, and Vigüela will show Spanish folk music with its simple yet resonant sounds. In addition, Teatro Real will deliver a vibrant and dynamic flamenco performance. all these performances will offer an opportunity to experience diverse charms that reflect Spain's culture, history, and art.

A Variety of Styles within Dynamic Performances of Flamenco

The Charm of Vibrant Energy Yielded by Intense Rhythms

“Teatro Real (Madrid’s Royal Opera House)” is a leading institution representing Spain's performing arts and music. It covers both traditional and contemporary vocal repertoires, and was recognized as one of the world's top opera companies as shown in their winning of the International Opera Award in 2021.

Their stage at the 2025 Jeonju International Sori Festival, titled “Authentic Flamenco,” is a performance that has captivated over 250,000 audiences in 42 cities worldwide in 2023. From the intense foot movement to the elegant swaying of the shawls, and the rhythmic moves of castanets and fans, the performance will bring audiences into a world where art and life become mingled together through the diverse styles of flamenco.

[Flamenco Real presents “Orígenes”]

1. Martinete

The Martinete is one of the oldest flamenco songs. It was born from the singing of the blacksmiths, without musical accompaniment, only with the rhythm of the hammer on the anvil. It is a solemn and deep song, which represents the purest origin of flamenco. It is danced with sticks that percuss along with the sounds of the feet.

2. Seguiriya

The seguiriya is one of the most dramatic and expressive palos. Its lyrics speak of pain, loss and suffering, among other themes. The rhythm is an amalgam of 3/4 and 6/8, and the singing conveys great emotion. It represents the soulful soul of flamenco. Here we represent it with a bata de cola and castanets in the style of the Sevillian school.

3. Alegrías

The alegrías are a festive and elegant palo from Cádiz. Its rhythm is an amalgam of 3/4 and 6/8, its character is joyful, as its name indicates. It is usually danced with a bata de cola and shawl, showing grace, beauty and tradition.

4. Guitar Solo

The guitarist has his moment in the limelight in this solo. Through flamenco melodies and rhythms, he shows his technique, creativity and sensitivity. It is a tribute to the fundamental role of the guitar in flamenco art.

5. Tientos - Tangos

This part begins with the tientos, an elegant and solemn palo, and ends with the more rhythmic and joyful tangos of African origin. Performed in pairs, it takes us on an emotional journey, from sensuality to celebration, very typical of flamenco.

6. Solo de cante

Flamenco singing is the root of everything. In this solo, the voice is presented naked, without distractions, to transmit with force the truth of flamenco. It is a moment of great intensity and sincerity.

7. Guajiras

The guajiras are a ‘palo de ida y vuelta’, influenced by Cuban music. It is a lively style, with an amalgam rhythm in 3/4 and 6/8, its character is soft and sensual. It reflects the connection between Andalusia and Latin America, and the richness of the cultural mix. It is usually danced with a fan.

8. Sevillanas

Sevillanas are a very popular traditional dance in the south of Spain. They are danced in couples and have a festive character. Although it is not a flamenco palo per se, it has been integrated into many shows because of its energy and colour.

9. Fin de fiesta por bulerías