Spanish National Ballet to return with “Zaguán & Alento” in September

     After a five-year hiatus, the Ballet Nacional de España (Spanish National Ballet) will return to Hong Kong in September to stage three performances of its latest production, "Zaguán & Alento".
 
     "Zaguán & Alento" comprises two renowned pieces and follows a challenging proposition to the Spanish National Ballet from the company’s director, Antonio Najarro, through which he aims to showcase the company’s new aesthetic and style. The performances will be held at 8pm on September 21 and 22 (Friday and Saturday) and at 3pm on September 23 (Sunday) at the Auditorium of Sha Tin Town Hall.
 
     "Zaguán" is a flamenco ballet that seeks to portray transitional space from an array of perspectives, in which three young artists will showcase their personal dance vocabulary, approach and style. The company will also perform "Soleá del Mantón" by Blanca del Rey, one of the grand dames of Spanish flamenco.
 
     "Alento" is presented as a living reflection of Najarro's style as a creator, as well as of his personal vision of classic Spanish dance. It is a reminder of his choreographic trajectory, inspired by the scores of the great composer and guitarist Fernando Egozcue, who has created music full of rhythm and sensitivity.
 
     Founded in 1978, the Spanish National Ballet is one of the original projects of the National Institute for the Stage Arts and Music. The Ballet has evolved with the times but has preserved its interest in all styles of Spanish dance, performing choreographies, flamenco and stylised Spanish dance. It combines tradition and modernity while not forgetting key aspects such as training and performing new projects.
 
     Antonio Najarro is an accomplished dancer and choreographer. He began his career at 15, performing in many prominent Spanish dance companies. He was accepted into the Spanish National Ballet in 1997 and three years later ascended to the rank of Principal Dancer under the direction of Aida Gomez. Najarro was appointed the ballet’s director in 2011.
 
     "Zaguán & Alento" by the Spanish National Ballet is presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. Tickets ranging from $160 to $460 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone credit card bookings, please call 2111 5999. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2268 7323 or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/Programme/en/dance/programs_572.html.