Flamenco Arts International (FAI), a San Francisco nonprofit dedicated to the art of flamenco, is set to debut its first production, “Songs from a Sinking Ship.” Scheduled for March 28-30 at Z Space in San Francisco, this performance aims to attract both traditional flamenco enthusiasts and those new to the art form.

Universal Themes in Flamenco

Veteran flamenco artists Marina Elana and Isabel del Día describe the performance as a “captivating art form that has universal appeal,” emphasizing the emotional depth of flamenco, which can be accessed through various facets: dance, music, rhythm, and song. They note that the piece is inspired by the classic tale of sirens who entice sailors into turbulent waters, making it relatable to a wide audience, regardless of familiarity with flamenco’s rich history.

A Deep Dive into Collective Struggles

The concept for “Songs from a Sinking Ship” emerged from a creative session with British filmmaker Yvonne Zhang, who serves as a creative consultant for the project. The artists view the production as a metaphor for the personal and societal issues individuals face today. They assert, “It made us question all the reasons why we do not take action,” reflecting on attitudes toward complacency and responsibility in today’s complex world.

Flamenco’s Political and Cultural Significance

Elana and del Día acknowledge the political dimensions of their work, particularly the historical contexts that gave rise to flamenco. They explain that the term “flamenco” was used by Spanish authorities to categorize and scapegoat the Romani people, highlighting the marginalized voices that have shaped this art form. “The political history of flamenco factors into everything we do,” they state, underlining the struggles and resilience of its cultural originators.

Expanding the Flamenco Community

FAI was co-founded in 2024 by Elana and del Día to revitalize and expand the presence of flamenco in the Bay Area. They call attention to the challenges faced by flamenco in the broader arts landscape, where established notions of “classic” and “contemporary” overshadow vibrant traditions. Their efforts aim to dismantle these biases and celebrate flamenco as a living, communal practice.

Engagement and Future Plans

The team at FAI is eager to connect with the Bay Area’s diverse community, hoping that their forthcoming performances will inspire broader conversations and engagement. They are already strategizing for a more developed iteration of “Songs from a Sinking Ship” based on audience feedback from the initial shows.

Event Details

“Songs from a Sinking Ship” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on March 28-29 and at 2 p.m. on March 30 at Z Space, located at 450 Florida St., San Francisco. Tickets range from $38 to $85 and can be purchased through the official website flamencoartsinternational.org.