Midyear reflections + upcoming performance
We had a bit of a realization halfway through the year.
First, are we the only ones wondering how is it June already?
We had different ideas for how this year would go for us. We thought we’d be hunkered down in the studio, deep into the creative process as we mount new work. Instead we’ve found ourselves in community, sharing beautiful moments with friends, collaborators, students, and audiences, while continuing to actively seek support to bring our next work to life.
It’s tempting to disappear into the studio and focus only on creating, but somehow the pull to be in community is getting stronger. The longer we do this work, the more we realize we’re not meant to do this alone. Art is part of collective work for the things that matter to us.
We recall where the urge to first create Madre came from. Tired of seeing the destruction on our screens, we wanted to create. When war broke out in the Middle East, Ela found herself asking, “Why am I dancing when the world is burning?” Ah, dramatic as always, but the answer did come.
It’s an act of love amidst fear. It’s exactly what we feel called to do in these times: double down on devotion. On passion. On our offering.
And we’ll keep sharing with you.
We’re doing something different with our new work, Sin Fin. We’ll be inviting you deeper into our process during a work-in-progress performance. Rather than waiting until the piece is finished, we’d like to share the journey as it unfolds and open a conversation. More on that soon!
Thank you to everyone who has supported the development of Sin Fin so far. Your encouragement, contributions, and belief in the vision have helped make this next chapter possible.
UPCOMING PERFORMANCE
Feria de Málaga - Friday, June 19th (tomorrow!)
We’re excited to be part of the Feria de Málaga at the Spanish Cultural Center in Washington, DC. Presented by the Cultural Office of the Embassy of Spain, the festival brings one of Spain’s most beloved celebrations to the heart of the capital. Ela will be performing at 5:30pm with invited artists José Moreno and Ricardo Marlow. Hope to see you there!
🎟️ Free, RSVP required — link: https://bit.ly/malaga-fair-dc
Summer Technique Class with Ela
at Arte Flamenco Studio
Ela is teaching an 8-week session on Thursday nights from June 18 - August 6
More details here.
In the meantime, here’s a look back at the past few months - we’ve been having a blast!
Another beautiful night at Jalapeños Tablao, May 7 ✨
With Edwin Aparicio, Sara Jerez, and Ricardo Marlow
Photo by Diane
Natalia Monteleon’s Arte Flamenco Recital, May 3 💃🏽
Sharing the stage with Michael Perez and José Moreno
Photo by Daniela @corellaphotography
District Sounds 2026, April 16 at The Wharf ☀️🎶🌊
Flamenco meets tap in a collaboration with Quynn Johnson, José Moreno, Héctor Márquez, Joseph Webb, Indra Carpio Petel, and Charles Wilson.
Thank you to District Coalition and SPAIN arts & culture.
Joppa Hall, April 10 ✨🌚
We waited with the audience for the Artemis crew to splash down from the moon - and then the show began!
What a joy to share the stage with Nelida Tirado.
Infinite gratitude to Dr. Janice Mahinka and Dr. Richard Johnson.
And speaking of community, Alma Dance Studio is hosting the next Sala Rociera Flamenco Party on Saturday, June 27! Everyone is welcome.
We’re ready for summer - wishing you the most wonderful Summer Solstice!