Benito García’s Flamenco Lecture at Instituto Cervantes Tokyo, 2024
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Professor Beni gave a special lecture at the Instituto Cervantes in Tokyo!
On Monday, September 16, 2024, Benito García’s special lecture, “Introduction to Flamenco: From Its Beginnings to the Present,” took place at the Instituto Cervantes in Tokyo.
In this lecture, Professor Beni clearly explained the history of flamenco’s origins, the changes it has undergone over time, and the development of flamenco in Japan, among other topics.
He also shared fascinating personal stories about his experiences and impressions of flamenco in Japan after arriving in the country at the age of 17, as recounted in this report of the lecture.
In the second half, the audience experienced flamenco rhythms through palmas, rhythmic handclapping, and called out jaleo, encouraging cheers, as Professor Beni danced. These activities brought flamenco closer to everyone. There were also explanations of costumes and accessories, a simple choreography that everyone danced together, and an opportunity to try palillos, or castanets. The room became wonderfully lively. Everyone seemed to enjoy taking part, laughing at Professor Beni’s jokes along the way.
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Testimonials from audience members.
“It was such an in-depth and informative lecture, and the time flew by! Everyone in the audience listened attentively, with occasional laughter at Professor Beni’s jokes. At the end, we all enjoyed dancing, and the atmosphere became incredibly lively. I’m so glad I went.” (Mayuko Harada / ハラダ マユコ)
“What made the strongest impression on me this time was Professor Beni and guest 荻山幸子 talking about the history of flamenco in Japan. In particular, I remember hearing in the lecture that Japanese dancers’ ‘orthodox and beautiful’ dancing, together with the presence of ‘El Flamenco,’ described there as Asia’s first tablao, had greatly influenced artists coming to Japan from Spain. There were also precious stories that we rarely have the chance to hear, and the day left me asking myself: Why is Japan such a major flamenco country? Or, rather, why did I want to dance flamenco myself? In the second half of the event, the entire audience enjoyed trying palmas, jaleo, and a simple choreography together with Professor Beni, instructor Kurosu (黒須), and instructor Nami (ナミ). Professor Beni is busy every day, but for such a wonderful event, I would love him to do it again!” (Ako Kimata / キマタ アコ)
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