City: Albuquerque, NM

Category: Shopping

Telephone: (505) 242-7600

Address: 214 Gold Avenue SW

Description: Founded in 1987 by Director Eva Encinias-Sandoval, the National Institute of Flamenco (NIF) is devoted to preserving the art, culture, and history of flamenco. Classes in flamenco dance, music, and song are taught in the Conservatory for Flamenco Arts, and the NIF has three performing groups. Yjastros, the American Flamenco Repertory Company, is directed by Joaquin Encinias and is a national touring company. Alma Flamenca is a preprofessional company featuring advanced dance students from the Conservatory of Flamenco Arts and the University of New Mexico. Niños Flamencos presents some of the best young students ages 5 to 14 from the Conservatory. Additionally, NIF hosts leading international flamenco artists. National Institute of Flamenco performances can be seen at various city venues and festivals, including productions at the National Hispanic Cultural Center and the Rodey Theater. NIF also presents the annual Festival Flamenco Internacional de Alburquerque (the extra “r” is in honor of the city’s original name). Claimed as the largest flamenco event of its kind in North America, this 10-day festival in June is usually held at the University of New Mexico, and it brings leading artists and students from around the world to Albuquerque for workshops and public performances at various city venues. Many flamenco fans were disappointed when the 23rd annual festival in 2009 was suspended for economic reasons. Director Eva Encinias-Sandoval intends to bring the festival back in 2010.