Compañía de Danza Jesús Carmona brought their latest production, Unydos, to Sadler's Wells in London, delivering a powerful blend of traditional flamenco and modern dance. The performance, which premiered to a full house, showcases Carmona's unique choreographic vision that fuses the intensity of flamenco with contemporary movement.
A Dance of Duality
Unydos, meaning “united” in Spanish, explores themes of connection and conflict through a series of duets and ensemble pieces. The company of nine dancers, led by Carmona himself, moves with precision and passion, their footwork echoing the rhythmic complexity of flamenco while their bodies carve out space in more abstract, modern forms.
The production is structured around the idea of two opposing forces coming together. Carmona's choreography highlights the tension between tradition and innovation, as well as the interplay between male and female energies. The dancers, dressed in sleek, monochrome costumes by designer Alejandro Andújar, shift seamlessly from fiery, percussive sequences to fluid, lyrical passages.
Musical and Visual Brilliance
The live music, performed by guitarist Juan Requena and singer David ‘El Galli’, adds a layer of authenticity and raw emotion. The score, composed by Carmona and Requena, blends traditional flamenco palos with contemporary harmonies, creating a soundscape that is both familiar and fresh. Lighting design by Olga García complements the mood, casting dramatic shadows that enhance the dancers' movements.
One of the standout moments is a solo by Carmona, where he executes a complex zapateado (footwork sequence) that builds to a breathtaking crescendo. The audience responds with thunderous applause, a testament to his technical mastery and emotional depth.
Critical Reception
Critics have praised Unydos for its innovative approach to flamenco. The Guardian calls it “a thrilling fusion that honours tradition while pushing boundaries,” while The Stage notes that “Carmona's vision is both deeply rooted and daringly progressive.” The production has been described as a must-see for dance enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Carmona, a former principal dancer with the Ballet Nacional de España, continues to establish himself as a leading figure in contemporary flamenco. Unydos runs at Sadler's Wells until June 28 before embarking on a European tour.
