Beni and Al Andalus at Tablao Esperanza in Kōenji: A Performance Review
The first half opened with a rondeña by the dance company, followed by alegrías, and closed with a fandango by Beni and Hideko. The second half began with the company’s garrotín, followed by Hideko’s taranto, the company’s seguiriyas, and Beni’s soleá por bulerías. In the group pieces, dancers took turns during the letras, falsetas, and escobillas, creating variety with the audience’s enjoyment in mind. Solos were woven between the group performances before the ensemble returned. The programme was designed to make the whole show work beautifully, beyond the enjoyment of each individual piece.
The space at Tablao Esperanza was wonderful, too: stylish, yet with the depth and gravitas so distinctive to flamenco. It was a very comfortable and welcoming place to dance.
That day, Beni arrived at Esperanza after finishing his classes and went straight into the performance without a rehearsal.
After the show, he said it had reminded him of the days when he performed regularly at November Eleventh, and that he was very happy to have danced that way again.
Thank you also to everyone who came to watch us.
We received these comments from members of the audience.
(Tazuko)
Watching flamenco in a tablao, I feel something reach me directly in a way I cannot experience in a large theatre.
This performance, too, brought a mixture of emotions: anticipation, excitement, surprise, tension, sorrow… They washed over me, then receded.
I truly felt the dancers move me deeply. By the time it was all over, I was so drained that I almost slumped into my chair.
I think dancers express through their dancing what wells up inside them. As I watch, though, I feel as if something is being drawn out of me.
When that power shakes me, I find myself wondering for a moment, ‘What am I doing with myself?’ But then a determination starts bubbling up: next time, I want to give it my all, too!
I want to do it. I will do it. That’s it: time to practise!
Incidentally, this was the first time my husband had seen Beni dance. He seemed to really enjoy it, saying, ‘I’ve never seen flamenco that intense!’ After the show, he was delighted that he had shaken Beni’s hand. Now he says he wants to see him again. Until now, he hadn’t even come to watch me when I took part in student performances!
Flamenco is wonderful! And Beni and the Al Andalus Dance Company are the best!
(Kumiko)
This was my first time seeing a live show in several years, since the pandemic.
The musicians were wonderful: the letras and melodies that really spoke to me sent shivers through me. I could clearly feel each dancer’s role within the company, making this a thoroughly rewarding show to watch. It was also my first visit to the revamped Esperanza, which made it particularly moving for me. And Beni, who seemed exhausted! I felt the atmosphere change the moment he appeared. I imagine everyone else in the audience felt it, too. Beni still has that unmistakable charisma. I also enjoyed his remarks on the microphone, full of enthusiasm for entertaining the audience.
Thank you.
Benito García dancing on a dimly lit stage 
A dancer and Benito García on stage 
Two performers dance before seated artists at Tablao Esperanza
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