Ballet Hispanico, recognized as the nation’s leading Latino dance organization since 1970, makes its annual return to the Apollo stage to present the New York Premiere of its first evening-length narrative work, CARMEN.maquia, choreographed by Gustavo Ramírez Sansano, in a one-night-only engagement on Saturday, November 22, 2014 at 8pm. The performance is sponsored by Goya Foods. Tickets are $28-$58 and are available online at Ticketmaster.com, by phone at (800) 745-3000, or in person at the Apollo Theater Box Office at 253 W. 125^th Street, NYC.  For more information, visit www.ballethispanico.org.  

Hailed as a “masterpiece” by the Chicago Sun-Times, Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s CARMEN.maquia, like Georges Bizet’s iconic opera about a passionate gypsy, is riveting from start to finish.  The physically charged and sensual choreography fuses contemporary dance with the subtleties of the Spanish paso doble and flamenco dances. A stunning set design by Luis Crespo and minimalist black-and-white costumes by fashion designer David Delfin evoke the paintings of Pablo Picasso.  Highly original and full of elaborate partnering, CARMEN.maquia is a bold and electrifying reimagining of this tragic tale.

“Storytelling and movement is intrinsic to our culture and woven into the fabric of who we are as human beings, and I am thrilled to give New York audiences the opportunity to experience the story of Carmen through the eyes of a contemporary Spanish choreographer,” said Eduardo Vilaro, Artistic Director of Ballet Hispanico. “Gustavo Ramírez Sansano has created a seductive, bold, and brilliant work that will delight and inspire.”