Flamenco fire is setting the stage ablaze at Shakespeare's Globe, where director Indiana Lown-Collins has infused Love's Labour's Lost with the passionate rhythms of Spanish dance. On a heatwave day in London, the iconic wooden theatre transforms into a fiesta of hard-heeled boots, swirling skirts, and guitar strums, creating a sensory experience that reimagines the Bard for modern audiences.
Lown-Collins, who is half-Spanish and grew up immersed in flamenco, found the perfect match in this early comedy. The play's themes of passion, love, sex, and death align seamlessly with the dramatic intensity of flamenco, which she describes as excelling at "sex and death." The production features only two professional flamenco dancers, Pablo Egea and Anita La Maltesa, while the rest of the cast undergoes a rigorous three-hour daily bootcamp led by choreographer Carmen Igarza.
Why Flamenco and Shakespeare Are a Perfect Pair
The Globe's oak stage and circular acoustics provide an ideal setting for flamenco's percussive footwork and soaring vocals. Lown-Collins explains, "I just knew it would sound incredible!" The production emphasizes strong female characters, with the matriarchy at the heart of flamenco mirroring the play's powerful women who take the court by storm.
Behind the Scenes: The Flamenco Bootcamp
Actors who are not professional dancers are pushed out of their comfort zones, with one team member comparing the experience to Strictly Come Dancing. Spanish actress Bea Segura laughs, "From here to Sadler's Wells, you never know!" Their progress so far is impressive, blending theatrical storytelling with authentic flamenco technique.
| Element | Traditional Shakespeare | Flamenco-Inspired Production |
|---|---|---|
| Music | Period instruments | Guitar and percussion |
| Dance | Minimal movement | Intense footwork and skirt work |
| Costumes | Elizabethan attire | Flamenco dresses and boots |
| Mood | Comedic wordplay | Passionate, fiery energy |
Key Takeaways from the Production
- Innovative fusion: Flamenco adds a new layer of emotional intensity to Shakespeare's comedy.
- Cultural homage: The production celebrates Spanish heritage and flamenco's matriarchal roots.
- Accessible art: Even non-dancers can participate, making theater more inclusive.
- Acoustic mastery: The Globe's design amplifies flamenco's percussive sounds.
FAQ
What play is being performed with flamenco at the Globe?
Love's Labour's Lost, an early Shakespeare comedy, is being reimagined with flamenco dance and music.
Who is directing the flamenco Shakespeare production?
Indiana Lown-Collins, a half-Spanish director who grew up with flamenco, is directing the production at Shakespeare's Globe.
How are actors trained for the flamenco choreography?
The cast undergoes a three-hour daily bootcamp with choreographer Carmen Igarza, with only two professional flamenco dancers in the cast.
This electrifying production proves that Shakespeare's timeless words can dance to a new rhythm. Whether you're a theater lover or a flamenco fan, this show is a must-see in London's cultural calendar.
Shop premium products at GrandGoldman.com
