Evento

La Bolivianita

In the world premiere of her new solo work La Bolivianita, dancer and choreographer Elba Hevia y Vaca explores her lifelong artistic journey with Flamenco. First introduced to Flamenco through her family's pride in their Spanish heritage, La Bolivianita delves into the artists emotional and changing relationship with her beloved art form. As the artist ages and comes to term with her recent discovery that she is primarily descended from the indigenous Andean rather than the Spaniards, La Bolivianita poses the question: Are we what we inherit? Says Hevia y Vaca, "I have come to realize that Flamenco will always be in my life and that we are inextricably intertwined. The work Ive made in the past came from a Flamenco body and mind formed by many years of training, conditioning, and obeying rules which I have sought to challenge and decode. Now Im focusing on embracing these codes and restrictions of Flamenco as elements to use and subvert, rather than as a tyranny to either follow or protest. In my new work, Im examining this changed relationship while delving into my personal history and identity."

La Bolivianita incorporates spoken word, the de-construction of modern Flamenco choreography, and culminates in an interactive dialogue with the audience. La Bolivianita is directed by world renowned Flamenco innovator, choreographer, and feminist artist Belen Maya (Spain).

Early reviews of La Bolivianita:

"I cannot say that I have ever seen a more powerful and moving exploration of a life in the arts."--Broad Street Review

"In La Bolivianita a dance performance telling the story of a Bolivian immigrant, mother, and dancer Hevia y Vaca explodes with emotions."--WHYY News

"Hevia y Vacas precise, strong footwork, articulate hand embellishments, and sharp glances clearly conveyed a myriad of emotions: anger, passion, heartbreak, and intense love. The rhythms created by her dancing and clapping reverberated loudly through the space, mirroring the palpitations of the human heart."--Philadelphia Dance Journal