Please join us as we celebrate the life and journey of Ensemble Español’s beloved founder, Dame Libby Komaiko. The tribute will feature a few of Dame Libby’s company pieces, including Dame Libby’s masterwork, “Bolero.”
Tickets no longer available but the tribute will be streamed live on Northeastern Illinois University’s and Ensemble Español’s home page website’s and in the Northeastern Illinois University recital hall on April 27th at 7:30pm. If you are interested, please contact Josephine DiCesare, Director of Operations, at 773-442-5916 or G-DiCesare@neiu.edu
Ensemble Español heats up the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts with “Flamenco Passion: A Tribute to José Greco’s 100th Anniversary“
José Greco 100th Anniversary Greco’s children Carmela Greco, José Greco II and Lola Greco perform on stage for the first time since their father’s passing. Other Program Highlights Include a World Premiere Ballet by Carlos Rodriguez honoring Dame Libby Komaiko and a Commemorative Performance of “Bolero” to mark its 25th Anniversary
The elegance and passion of Spain’s dance, music and culture is showcased by Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater, in Residence at Northeastern Illinois University, with their annual American Spanish Dance & Music Festival. The Festival kicks off with three crowd-pleasing “Flamenco Passion” live music and dance performances which include a tribute to Jose Greco’s 100th birthday anniversary with performances by Mr. Greco’s children, Carmela, Jose and Lola Greco. This tribute is directed by Juan Mata, founding member of the National Ballet of Spain and former dancer with the Jose Greco Spanish Dance Company. Mr. Jose Greco was Dame Libby’s first Spanish dance teacher, director and mentor. The concerts will open with the world premiere ballet by Carlos Rodriguez, “Mar de Fuego (Sea of Fire)” honoring Dame Libby in the Flamenco contemporary style. The Ensemble Español’s critically acclaimed “Bolero” will close each concert. The New York Times observed how Bolero, choreographed by Dame Libby “wowed the audience…amazing,” in its review of Ensemble Español’s January 2018 performances at the Joyce Theater in Manhattan . “Bolero” marks its 25th anniversary this year. Guest musicians for this year’s festival include Flamenco singer Paco Fonta, guitarists, Antonio Gabarri Jimenez and Marija Temo and percussionist, Javier Saume Mazzei.