The National Institute of Flamenco announces the return of Festival Flamenco Internacional de Alburquerque, June 10-15, 2013. This annual celebration of the traditional and contemporary artistry of Spain’s Andalusían region is the largest in the country, hosting thousands of visitors including: students, patrons and artists. Because Albuquerque is known as a crossroads for cultural exchange, this event is important for nurturing the artistic sensibilities within the region.

Each year Festival Flamenco Internacional generates $1.4 million dollars in revenue boosting the local economy and providing jobs for creative talent from across the world. “The impact of Festival Flamenco on the global arts community is immense not only on an economic level, but also on an artistic level. Through this prestigious festival, the National Institute of Flamenco is actively preserving a rich piece of culture that is in danger of extinction due to the effects of globalization while also providing jobs, opportunities and of course, public exposure to this prolific art form,” says Festival Director Eva Encinias Sandoval.

Festival Flamenco Internacional’s platform is built on the idea that cultural preservation is central to its existence; it is supported by the most exciting performing arts experience and the most comprehensive learning components available in the country. By presenting the most accomplished and up-and-coming artists in their field, Festival Flamenco Internacional is the catalyst for connecting global audiences with the arts of Spain.  

 Performances will be held nightly at the University of New Mexico’s Rodey Theatre and at the National Hispanic Cultural Center – full performance schedule announcements to come. Ticket prices range from $30-$90, with ticket packages available for the general public and New Mexico Pass available to residents. Festival headliners include: Marco Flores, Iván Vargas, Karime Amaya, and Israel Galván. See list of performers attatch

            Festival Flamenco Internacional workshops will be held at Carlisle Gym on the University of New Mexico campus. Registration is now open for more than 25 workshops and flamenco experience courses, offering students comprehensive flamenco-related study, with a number of options for beginners, intermediate and advanced levels. Workshop prices range from $130-$500, with early bird incentives available.

            For more information about Festival Flamenco Internacional, contact the National Institute of Flamenco at (505) 242-7600 or visit www.ffi26.org. NHCC tickets may be purchased at the box office by calling (505) 724-4771 or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com; UNM Rodey Theatre tickets may be purchased at the box office by calling (505) 925-5858 or by visiting unmtickets.com.

            Festival sponsors and partners include: City of Albuquerque, National Hispanic Cultural Center, University of New Mexico, Horizon Group at Morgan Stanley, abqARTS & Entertainment Magazine, the Alibi, Clear Channel Outdoor, City of Albuquerque Urban Enhancement Trust Fund, Gaucho Imports, Whole Foods.

Through over 30 years of local, national and international community building, the National Institute of Flamenco has evolved into one of the most important arts organizations in New Mexico and the most impactful flamenco organization outside of Spain. The National Institute of Flamenco is dedicated to preserving and promoting flamenco’s artistry, history and culture.