Today we’d like to introduce you to Reyes Barrios.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Reyes. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
From the time I was young I have always known that I wanted to be an artist and a teacher. I just didn’t realize that I would end up teaching Flamenco dance.
My passion for dancing Flamenco began at the age of 4 or 5. Living in the heart of Flamenco, Sevilla Spain, you could hear the singing and the footwork throughout the streets. I was always intrigued and eager to learn this art form. This was something that I knew I had to do.
I began to study Flamenco dance and music. I made a strong commitment to learn and to work my craft. I traveled to Spain to continue to learn and studied with great teachers.
In addition to being a dancer and choreographer, I am also a sought out singer. My knowledge of the “cante” as it relates to flamenco dance makes me a multi-talented artist.
I was very honored to study with great teachers and to perform with great artists in US and I continue to perform and teach.
I have been teaching in San Diego for 13 years. I teach children and adults of all ages. I am also currently teaching for the Escondido Performing arts for the schools after school program. This gives kids a chance to learn a new art form that may not otherwise have a chance.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. There have been many challenges in many ways. Some of my struggles have been challenging myself on a daily basis. No matter how difficult things became in my life I had to continue. My passion is what kept me going. It helped me heal.
I later realized it also helped heal others. There are times that during rehearsals or time on stage a once are my happiest moments. It is where I feel everything at once.
Some moments are now smoother than others. I will continue to challenge myself.
Please tell us about La Reyes Flamenco.
My company is La Reyes Flamenco.
I am currently teaching at Dance Place in Liberty Station.
My Flamenco dance classes include live singers and guitarists. I believe that this is the true way of learning this art form. I am also a flamenco singer and I am from Sevilla Spain. I have an understanding of the “Cante”(song), which is key to understanding Flamenco Dance. I sing in my classes and I also have my students learn lyrics and sing them. So for many students they are also learning the language itself.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Being in school and singing in the choir.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 6195176056
- Email: lareyes619@gmail.com
- Instagram: lareyesflamenca
- Facebook: La Reyes Flamenco
Image Credit:
Fabian Skalante Photography
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