In this episode of the Real Good Denver Podcast, Ryan Estes sits down with Maria and Eva from Flamenco Denver, the nonprofit bringing the passion, rhythm, and roots of Spain to the Mile High City. With 25 years in Denver, Flamenco Denver has taught thousands of students, performed across schools, and created community through music, dance, and song. Their annual showcase, RAICES, returns September 30 at the Newman Center with world-class dancers, singers, and musicians.

Who this episode is for

• Arts lovers and culture seekers in Denver

• Musicians and dancers looking for inspiration

• Families exploring cultural experiences

• Anyone curious about the power of community through art

Key Takeaways

• Event Details: Rises is one night only, Tuesday, September 30, at the Newman Center. Tickets: flamencodenver.com

• The Academy: Flamenco Denver offers weekly classes for kids, adults, and even seniors, building a tight-knit cultural community.

• Education Impact: They provide free programs in Title 1 schools across Denver during Hispanic Heritage Month.

• Global Roots: Flamenco is a living art form born from centuries of cultural mixing across Spain, Cuba, and Latin America.

• Guest Artists: The show features Grammy-winning percussionists, singers from Granada, and international dancers.

• Personal Story: Maria came from Seville, Spain, and founded Flamenco Denver in 2005, transitioning to a nonprofit in 2014.

• Legacy: Former students have gone on to perform professionally in Spain and return to Denver to teach.

Frameworks in the Conversation

1. Flamenco’s Three Pillars: Dance, Guitar, and Singing.

2. Community Model: Start from scratch → grow through classes → contribute to performances → bring knowledge back from Spain.

3. Roots Before Fusion: Understand tradition deeply before blending into modern interpretations.

Resources and Links

• Tickets & Academy: flamencodenver.com