Mediacontact:CassidyRichens,0405485288,62931443orcassidy.richens@tuggeranongarts.com.au

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M E D I A R E L E A S E

6 March 2017

Debut performance for Spanish singer Naike Ponce Experience authentic Flamenco on Friday 17 March with acclaimed Flamenco ensemble Bandaluzia Flamenco. Bandaluzia from ''banda'' the Spanish word for ''band'' and Andalucia, the birthplace of Flamenco is the brainchild of ARIA nominated guitarist Damian Wright and Dance Australia Magazine's "Most Outstanding Dancer of 2013,” Jessica Stratham. The music and dance ensemble includes Flamenco dancer Rosalie Cocchiaro, guitarist Ben Hauptmann and percussionist James Hauptmann. Formed in 2010, Bandaluzia are known for their passionate performance and their ability to mix elements of other genres into their performances, whether being the rich harmonies of Jazz, the exotic melodies of the Orient or the infectious rhythms of South America. Their shows are highly regarded as an experience that ignites the senses with the grace of Flamenco. They recently headlined the International Gypsy Music Festival and the Global Carnival and toured as part of Musica Viva's national touring program. For their current tour of 18 shows in Adelaide, Melbourne and along the East Coast, the line up includes guest singer Naike Ponce (Spain) and sees the ensemble returning to Canberra after a sell-out show two years ago.

“Damian Wright’s v irtuosic but tactful guitar gave them musical backing together with the impassioned s inging of Spanish Naike Ponce. “ – Alan Brissenden – Radio Adelaide 2016 “Bandaluzia is winning high praise for its unique Austral ian interpretat ion of the powerful music and dance form….with their thr i l l ing blend of passion and virtuosity” Gabrielle Wilder , SMH

Tour manager and guitarist Damian Wright says the new show featuring guest vocalist Naike Ponce from Sanlucar de Barrameda in Spain, combines the passion and energy of Flamenco with a gentle expression of the human aspects of Flamenco culture. “We’re delighted to be bringing Naike to Australia for her debut performance. She has worked with such music greats as Jorge Pardo (Paco de Lucia), Estrella Morente, Manolo Sanlùcar, Manolo Soler, Piraña, and Naranjito de Triana. Her recent artistic projects include her debut album ‘Con Nombres De Mujer’ alongside legendary guitarist and Grammy winner Jose Suarez Paquete, with the collaboration of Raimundo Amador, Tomatito and Piraña,” Wright said. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see the incredibly soulful and revered Flamenco artist in collaboration with Bandaluzia Flamenco at Tuggeranong Arts Centre on Friday 17 March. Concert tickets are $35 and on sale now online via Trybooking https://www.trybooking.com/253012 Tickets are limited and bookings are essential. This concert has been made possible with support of Flamenqueando Productions, who are bringing Naike Ponce to Australia.