Although “technically” an InterArts Book and Paper MFA, Kathi Beste has a foot firmly planted in the performance and media side of the Interdisciplinary Book and Paper Arts program. This week she is adding in an arts administration aspect, in presenting the flamenco performance “La Inspiración Gitana” at Mayne Stage in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood. The performers are also teaching guest artist workshops in dance and singing at Flamenco Arts Center, a flamenco-centric dance studio located in the nearby Lakeview area.

The group of five performers come from all over the world, including Italy, the U.S., and Jerez de la Frontera, in Andalucia, the cradle of flamenco, demonstrating the global reach of this complex musical form. Their performance honors the roots of flamenco’s deep song and classic movements, while incorporating contemporary music and dance concepts into their work.

Adriana Maresma Fois ¨La Nani¨: "Flamenco Puro" with a contemporary twist

“Flamenco is at its heart a community-based art form, passed along through generations of family members, friends, and neighbors. Mayne Stage has the perfect ambiance to present flamenco, with it’s intimate atmosphere and “tablao” feeling,” says Kathi. “Having workshops with the artists before the show also demonstrated to those unfamiliar with flamenco on how the music structure actually works, and the meanings behind the movements and songs. After enjoying it in class, people can better appreciate live performances, enjoying a fuller experience within the art form.”

Sound Culture & Flamenco Arts Center Present: AMFlamenco Company’s La Inspiración Gitana, featuring Adriana Maresma Fois “La Nani,” Jose Moro, Juan Antonio Gomez, Vicente Griego and Chiara Mangiameli, at Mayne Stage on Thursday, October 4, at 7:30 p.m. More information is available here.