Tap Olé

Source: The List (Issue 581)
Date: 1 August 2007
Written by: Allan Radcliffe

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Uniquely Spanish approach

The words ‘Spanish’ and ‘dance’ are most likely to conjure up visions of a twisting bolero or majestic sarabande. In recent years, however, one of the most innovative takes on tap dancing has come from Spanish company Tap Olé, whose members fuse virtuoso flamenco guitar with the precision and elegance of tap.

International soloist, Guillem Alonso co-founded the company in 2003 when he and fellow-dancer, Roser Font were asked to create a show with Spanish influences. ‘We considered forming a flamenco fusion trio with piano, drums and bass,’ he says. ‘But the final decision to use two guitarists gives the show a completely different feel to any other tap show.’

Since premiering in Chicago to rave reviews, Tap Olé’s innovations have included mixing tap with swing, Latin rhythms, tango and even the ancient sand dance. ‘There is so much to develop with the tap and Spanish mixture that we’ll keep creating in that direction for a long time,’ says Alonso. ‘I will keep dancing with any music possible, using tap as a percussion instrument.’

C, Chambers Street, 0845 260 1234, 1–27 Aug, 5.15pm, £8.50–£10.50 (£5.50–£9.50).

More: Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Fringe (Edinburgh Festivals), Dance

Last updated: 25 Jul 2008 17:14 BST