Flamenco: la tierra está viva

Using a host's narrative, performance and interviews, we examine the intimate connection between gitanos (Spanish Gypsies) and traditional flamenco. We also see how it is connected with the ways gitanos maintained themselves (as farm laborers, blacksmiths, fishermen, peddlers and the like)- how each one of these occupations gave rise to a different form of flamenco singing. Finally, we will see that although traditional flamenco is capable of expressing very deep and universal emotions, it is also in danger of disappearing. We will illustrate much of the documentary with flamenco singing - subtitled, to be more accessible - because of what the singing tells us about the life and history of the gitanos. We will also use relevant images, such as farm workers in the fields when we are talking about farm laborers. nd although we will include a fair amount of flamenco singing, there will also be dance performances by famous stars as well as elderly people from the community and one extremely talented, five year-old girl. The guitar will also be represented by two famous guitarists, who will talk to us about their art as well as giving us a demonstration. Our host is an internationally touring gitano flamenco singer, so much of his explanations will be in the form of personal stories and an account of personal observations. We will also two experts, and all of the flamenco performers will contribute a little information through interviews. —Eve A. Ma