While returning from Penedes, it suddenly started pouring out. It had been so sunny so where did the rain come from? We went back to our hotel and rested up a bit prior to dinner.
For dinner, we were going to see a Flamenco show at the Tablao de Carmen, located in the Andalusian section of Poble Espanol. The Poble Espanol is a small "village" built in 1929 for the World Expedition. It buildings and sections to represent the various regions of Spain. It has many artisan shops with jewelry, crafts, restaurants, and bars.
We arrived around 8pm to the Poble Espanol but unfortunately almost everything was closed. You could wander around the village but nearly all of the buildings were closed. There is some interesting architecture in the village.
The Tablao de Carmen pays homage to the famed dancer Carmen Amaya, a key figure in the history of flamenco. Carmen Amaya, Gypsy and Catalan, made her debut in 1929 in front of King Alfonso XIII on the grounds now occupied by Tablao de Carmen.
I know little about Flamenco dancing. It does tell a story and the music and dance help exemplify different emotions and moods. There is no formal choreography so each dancer improvises, dancing as they feel, following the music as they will. No two shows are thus the same.
I do know though that I very much enjoyed the show. The dancers, singers and musicians were all very talented. I could see the varied emotions and understand something of the story being told. The costumes were colorful and bright, and complemented the dancing. I was very glad that I had this opportunity to experience part of Spanish culture. We had excellent seats, though nearly all of the seats were very good. 
We ate dinner here as well, mainly several different tapas though we could have had a set multi-course meal. The food was plentiful and fairly good. They also start you with a glass of chilled Sherry and later bring you a bottle of wine. 
I definitely recommend that if you visit Spain to check out a Flamenco dance.
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