Seville’s popular maestro leads movers in classes of bulerías festeras, with participants smiling and cheering “Olé!” as they build dance from a fun rhythmic base. Now retired from his career as an acclaimed lead dancer for some of Spain’s top Flamenco performing companies, such as those of Cristina Hoyos and Mariemma, this world-class dancer tours internationally sharing his contagious enthusiasm in classes that are packed in Israel, France, The Netherlands, Russia, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, and his home of Spain.
2024 TOUR DATES
May 20-23, Portland, OR
June 4-8, DMV — Washington, D.C.
May 25-29, Denver
Why study bulerías?
Bulerías part of the informal, casual, and even funny side of Flamenco that is usually celebrated off-stage after performances or at family gatherings. Often, it is the encore of a Flamenco espectáculo (theater production). Dance movement is pedestrian rather than technically-oriented, making it a dance style for everyone, including beginners. Yet, the non-verbal communication and improvisational nature of this style of Flamenco dance is a fun challenge for advanced dancers.
Why are Juan’s classes exceptional?
Juan’s classes are taught in a circle to emphasize the communal nature of Flamenco, and the communicative nature of the rhythm. He meets each dancer at his or her individual level in this format, making him a master of reaching dancers at a variety of experience levels in one class. Part of his success as a teacher is due to his training as a dance educator. Juan is one of few touring Flamenco artists who is certified with honors as a Flamenco dancer. He received his certification in 2007 from the Conservatorio Superior de Música y Danza de Sevilla. The rest is the magic that Juan brings to class, his manner of helping students unlock new skills while smiling and laughing in class.
Does Juan speak English?
Juan teaches in Spanish, and it is not a barrier. His method of transmitting rhythm and dance is based on movement and gesture, rather than lecture and spoken explanation. In fact, dancing with a Spanish Flamenco artist who is speaking his own language is one of the successes that participants feel when they move and cheer in Juan’s classes.
Can Juan teach my group?
Juan Paredes has taught crowds of hundreds of people in public spaces during arts festivals, and he has taught the tiniest of dancers in small studios. He has taught high school language students with no Flamenco experience, as well as some of the most elite dancers in Flamenco academies. His work emphasizes the individual’s ability to take control of musical rhythm to create expression that feeds those around her who are waiting to give supportive hand claps and cheers in their role of team work. No one has to be a seasoned dancer to experience such joy of individuality that inspires happiness. A person just needs to be ready to enjoy the journey of learning through movement.