Flamenco Show in Barcelona's Spanish Village
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| Flamenco dancer at Poble Espanyol |
In this page I will share my experience of the flamenco show that takes place in Barcelona's Spanish Village (Poble Espanyol). The evening involves a four-course authentic Spanish dinner, accompanied by a Flamenco show by a ten-strong team. For details of ticket prices, times and how to get there, look towards the bottom of the page.
Most people, when asked what they associate with Spain, are likely to list flamenco right up there with sangria and sunshine. For many, this passionate and powerful style of dance exudes an expression that says so much about Spain and its spirit. I decided to find out more at Tablao de Carmen's flamenco evening with dinner. Following the experience, it is safe to say that I have now joined flamenco's hoards of followers.
The Performance at the Flamenco Show
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| Flamenco Show Entrance |
Flamenco is not traditionally a Catalan dance it originated in Southern Spain. However, due to the steady migration of people from the South through the years, it is possible to experience authentic flamenco here in Barcelona. The dancers at the show displayed a natural skill that was innate and instinctive. They moved to the music with a passion and gusto that was emotionally moving. Some of the dances were tortured, and heartfelt whilst others were light-hearted and lively.
The Spanish guitar player was not only handsome but also an amazing musician. The distinctive and intricate sound of the guitar worked in harmony with the singers and dancers. Three male singers provided the beautiful and anguished vocals associated with flamenco. They were joined at various points by a female singer and dancer with an incredibly powerful voice.
The crowd at the show were either in large groups or smaller families and couples. Each group of people attending the show was provided with their own table and before the show started the atmosphere was friendly but reserved. As the show began, it was clear that people were completely carried away by what was happening on the stage. Eating and chatter stopped, and hushed silences were followed by eruptions of whooping and applause. It was really enjoyable to find such genuine enthusiasm and unreserved emotion at a show.
Book your tickets online
The Food at the Flamenco Show
The standard of food at the show was high. There are four courses, each with a choice of four dishes. The food is authentically Spanish, with choices such as gazpacho, lentil and chorizo stew and crema Catalana on the menu. It is served before the show and then whilst the show is taking place. The waiters are helpful and friendly and have clearly been trained in stealth-style serving so as not to interrupt the show.
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| Crema Catalana | The Restaurant at the Flamenco Show |
A selection of drinks are on offer and these flow freely throughout the evening. I visited the show on my own and was given a whole bottle of water and a whole bottle of red wine to myself.
If you are a strict vegetarian, it is worth mentioning this when booking your ticket. The main course options are meat or fish, which will suit pescetarians but not vegetarians. All other courses offer vegetarian options.
Times of the Flamenco Show
On booking the ticket you are advised to arrive 45 minutes before the show starts. This is worth doing as it will give you more time to enjoy the first courses of your meal before the show begins and the lights go down.
First Show: 18:00
Second Show: 20:30
How to Get to the Flamenco Show
Metro: España (Red Line, L1) and (Green Line, L3)
Hop on hop off sightseeing tourist bus stop
Nearest stop for Flamenco Show is "Poble Espanyol" with the "hop on hop off" sightseeing bus
Public bus
Poble Espanyol: 13, 23, 150
Car parking
Luggage Storage
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| Poble Espanyol Entrance |
Poble Espanyol is located on the hill of Montjuïc. It was built in 1929 as a large exhibit. It houses buildings that are replicas of different architectural styles from various regions of Spain. It is a charming area to walk around, with narrow winding streets and old-style squares.
On arrival at Poble Espanyol you will be asked to provide your name at the door. You will be directed to a desk where you will receive a map of the village and directions to the 'Arcos de la Frontera' section, where the show takes place. Don't forget to factor in some time for getting to the show once you've entered the park - Poble Espanyol is a reasonably large area, and the venue is tucked away down a narrow little street.
If you are interested in seeing Poble Espanyol but do not wish to pay the entrance prices, this is an opportunity to see the area. Entrance to the village is included in the price of the flamenco show. Either before the show begins off, or once it has finished, you can take a wander around Poble Espanyol, and you will not be asked to leave.
Location map showing the walking routes to Poble Espanyol from the nearest metro stops
Carrer d'Arago, 2
Francesc Ferrer i Guardia, 13
Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc
Passeig Olimpic, 5-7
Avenida de Francesc Ferrer i Guardia, 6-8
Avinguda Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 7
Plaça de Carles Buigas, 1
Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 373 - 385
Price of the Flamenco Show
Flamenco Show with drink
Adults: €48.00
Flamenco Show and Four Course Meal
Adults: €85.00
Children (4 to 12 years): €39.00
This flamenco experience is one that I will never forget. A picturesque setting and quality food all served to add to an evening which, for me, was all about traditional Spanish dance and music. I felt privileged to bear witness to a stunning spectacle of skill and passion.
How to book tickets for this flamenco show
Below is a link to book tickets to the flamenco show at Poble Espanyol which we have reviewed on this page.