Flamenco Festival Showcases New Talent and Tradition

Annual 'Gala Flamenca' highlights rising star Juan Tomás de la Molía alongside veteran performers

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The annual Flamenco Festival New York featured the 'Gala Flamenca', a traditional flamenco performance format that showcased both new and established talent. Standout performers included the charismatic and improvisational Juan Tomás de la Molía, the proud and powerful El Farru, and the dramatic and virtuosic singer Mara Rey.

Why it matters

The Flamenco Festival New York has played a crucial role in introducing major flamenco artists to American audiences and celebrating the evolution of the art form. The 'Gala Flamenca' highlights how the festival balances honoring flamenco tradition while also elevating new voices and styles that are pushing the boundaries of the genre.

The details

The 'Gala Flamenca' featured a mix of solo performances that allowed each dancer to express their individual artistry. Newcomer Juan Tomás de la Molía impressed with his improvisational flair and creative use of rhythm, while veteran performer El Farru embodied the proud lineage of his Roma dynasty. Director Manuel Liñán offered a unique take on flamenco femininity, and the powerhouse vocalist Mara Rey captivated the audience with her emotional and percussive delivery.

  • The Flamenco Festival New York has been running for 25 years.
  • This year's 'Gala Flamenca' took place on Thursday, February 27, 2026.

The players

Miguel Marín

The artistic director of Flamenco Festival New York, who has been giving opening speeches at the festival for over 25 years.

Juan Tomás de la Molía

A rising flamenco star who impressed with his improvisational skills, creative rhythmic approach, and charismatic stage presence.

El Farru

A flamenco dancer and member of the renowned Roma dynasty that includes his grandfather El Farruco and brother Farruquito.

Manuel Liñán

The director of the 'Gala Flamenca' program, who offered a unique take on flamenco femininity through his performance in a long-tailed bata de cola dress.

Mara Rey

A flamenco vocalist who captivated the audience with her emotional and percussive delivery, showcasing her skills as both a singer and dancer.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Flamenco Festival New York continues to be a vital platform for celebrating the evolution of flamenco, balancing reverence for tradition with the introduction of new and innovative artists who are pushing the boundaries of the art form.