Spirited Dance

Just the other day I was watching a replay of one of Rick Stein's cooking episodes on TV. He was featuring Spain on a plate and he commented how much he enjoyed watching the flamenco dance while travelling around Spain. I think he is not only a great cook but well travelled and well read. I enjoy his commentaries, quotes from famous writers and dry humour in his presentations.

Talking about flamenco, I have watched one such dance at the Tablao Flamenco Cordobes located along La Rambla, Barcelona. We had booked a table for dinner and were told that we could also opt for the opportunity to watch a flamenco dance in the same premises. We confirmed our reservations when everyone in the party has no objection to spend a bit more to educate ourselves and at the same time enjoy a cultural dance.

We left the hotel early and walked along La Ramblas. It was exhilarating just watching the multitudes of people walking around. Fresh produce stalls were brightly lighted and stacked with colourful root vegetables and fruit.

The dinner at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes was good. Afterwards,we were ushered another flight of stairs to the dance theatre. The stage is rather small and the chairs for paying audience rather closely arranged. It was a full house. I think most of the audience did not dine at the restaurant as I noticed a number of vacant tables while we were dining.

The dances were highly spirited with lots of swirling and stomping around to the music and singing. We did not understand the storyline at all but it didn't matter. It was a terrific show and we enjoyed the atmosphere and the dancing.