Developing Artists

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EVOLUTION

developing
artists

Developing Artists is a virtual program designed for those committed to their artistic growth and ready to expand the scope of their studies. Essential focus areas include flamenco technique, structure, professional best practices, and more. Each course year is different from the last; the program adapts to the needs and goals of those taking part. Participants develop the skills necessary to take part in Cuadro work, compete in future iterations of Flamenco Certamen USA, and prepare for a professional career.

about

This year’s program will be divided into trimesters. Artists may choose to participate in select trimesters or for the whole year.

Trimester 1: September – November 2025
Trimester 2: December 2025 – February 2026
Trimester 3: March – May 2026

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Each trimester, we offer the following:

3 Mentorship sessions with esteemed flamenco professionals. These sessions may take place in a combination of group and individual sessions.
1 Masterclass specifically tailored to the dancers in the program. Class focus areas may include history, constructing a baile, developing an artistic practice, and more.
1 Technique Tutorial by faculty of professional artists who carefully assess, monitor, and create opportunities that directly serve the individuals taking part.
1 Virtual Check-in with Associate Artistic Director Emilio Ochando, to support artists in the program and discuss goals, challenges, and resources.
Optional participation in Cuadro intensives with performance opportunities (additional fees will apply).

PRICING

$2,250/year or $900/trimester

*Scholarships and payment plans are available
*Additional discounts available for dancers participating in both Cuadro and Developing Artist programs

APPLICATION

We are now accepting applications for ALL trimesters! Apply for Trimester 2 by October 27th, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST.

apply now

THIS PROGRAM IS FOR

Flamenco students 18 years who are ready to commit to deep study and evolution.
Students who can commit to virtual learning and have a dedicated individual practice.
Those who desire supplemental learning in flamenco, want to develop a solid artistic practice, and progress in their studies beyond what is customarily offered in a technique or choreography class.
Those who want to cultivate a network of support with fellow artists and industry professionals.

2023-24

program participants

This year Flamenco Vivo’s Artist Development Series brought together seven dancers from all over the U.S. in order to focus on deeper learning within the flamenco art form. With virtual classes ranging from a study of the flamenco palos, dance structure and movement analysis to one-on-one mentorships with established international artists, this year-long intensive series provides developing artists with integral tools necessary to prepare for a professional flamenco practice.

Carolina Pájaro Ramírez
Danielle Rainville
Emily Strong
Josephine Tayao
Justice Miles
Liane Nikitovich
Maitri Acharya
Mirta Cotto
Paula Sanchez-Kucukozer
Rachel Klipa

application

We are now accepting applications for ALL trimesters! Apply for Trimester 1 by
August 11, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST.

apply now

stay updated

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GUIDELINES

Artist Development Series:

Is a year-long, virtual program for up to 20 flamenco students living in the United States and Puerto Rico. Artist Development provides substantial support to rising artists in focus areas beyond what is learned in a typical flamenco dance class.
Is for students who are 18 years of age or older as of the application deadline.
Is designed to offer supplemental learning for those who want to progress in their studies. Class themes include but are not limited to: flamenco history, palos, constructing a baile, movement analysis, developing an artistic practice, stage etiquette, performance preparation, working in a cuadro, resume and bio writing, etc.
Is for those who want to cultivate a network of support with fellow artists and industry professionals.
Is tailored to the participant group and their specific needs. The 2021 cycle may be different than what was offered in the previous year, as the artists are different.
The Artist Development Series year may be repeated for even deeper understanding and implementation.

*For any questions regarding eligibility, please contact Leslie Roybal at colmena@flamenco-vivo.org/flamenco/

THE PROGRAM

The program consists of and includes:

Monthly virtual meetings to explore a wide variety of flamenco topics as well as share common challenges and successes within the group.
Foundational virtual learning in flamenco technique and repertoire as established by Antonio Ruiz Soler (Antonio el Bailarín) and recognized by Spain’s Ministerio de Cultura y Educación.
Ongoing classes taught by esteemed flamenco professionals in history, palos, constructing a baile, developing your own artistic practice, stage etiquette, performance preparation, and more. These classes may take place during the monthly sessions and/or as part of a longer series of classes as the subject requires.
One-on-one mentorship (up to 10 sessions, virtual and/or in-person when possible) with an established flamenco artist during the course of the program year.
Ongoing support in the form of one-on-one meetings with Program Director, Leslie Roybal, to address the specific needs and goals of each participant.
A “Flamenco Toolkit”; an informational packet including indispensable tools, advice and resources for aspiring flamenco professionals.
Optional participation in live, in-person events in NYC (cuadro classes, in-studio performances with live music, etc.)
Optional in-person Residency Intensive in May of 2022 (additional fees will apply).
Access to a broad network of flamenco professionals, resources, and support via participation in ADS and additional workshops.
A private forum (twist.com) where participants can communicate freely, share information and ideas.
Access to additional classes and opportunities provided by Flamenco Vivo and our partners throughout the ADS year.

*In-person events and Residency Intensive subject to restrictions due to Covid-19.

YOUR COMMITMENT

What is expected from each artist:

Artists commit to a full year of study (June 2021 – July 2022).
Artists must be actively studying (technique/choreography) throughout the program year. This program also offers foundational learning that will serve as a baseline for any additional classes taken online or in person.
Artists who complete the Artist Development Series are encouraged to submit an application for the 2022 Flamenco Certamen USA Competition.

FAQ

Q: Will there be a Flamenco Certamen Competition this year?

A: Yes, the Flamenco Certamen will take place in October 2021. The event includes a week-long residency as well as the Final Show and Judging. For more information about the 2021 Flamenco Certamen USA CLICK HERE

Q: If I complete the Artist Development Series, am I guaranteed to compete in the Flamenco Certamen Competition in 2022?

A: The Artist Development Series will fully prepare you to apply for and successfully compete in the Flamenco Certamen USA Competition, however it is not a guarantee that you will be selected as a Finalist. Finalists are chosen each year via an application and video submission. Applications receive thorough review by a panel of flamenco professionals who determine the artists that will compete in the Final Competition.

Q: What can I expect from the Residency Intensive?

A: The residency intensive will include daily technique classes, cuadro class as well as individual sessions with musicians, one-on-one mentorship sessions, and free time in the studio to work, among other concentrations. Please note that participation in the residency requires additional fees.

Q: Do I need to live in New York City to take advantage of the potential in-person aspects of the Artist Development Series?

A: You may be from anywhere in the U.S. and Puerto Rico to participate in the program. However, if you wish to take part in any of the optional in-person events, you will be responsible for traveling to NYC and any associated expenses.

Q: What level of dancer do I need to be to participate in the Artist Development Series:

A: Dancers from advanced beginner to pre-professional levels will benefit from participation, as the Artist Development Series is designed to supplement/complement the education you are already receiving from teachers in your respective communities. It is imperative to continue your ongoing studies as you engage with this program.

Q: I want to participate in the Artist Development Series, but am unable to pay the full fee. What are my options?

A: You may apply for a scholarship to support participant fees. Please complete the Artist Development Series Application and fill out the Request a Scholarship section. All applicants are eligible to apply and scholarships will be awarded on a sliding scale based on financial need. Scholarships awarded will apply to program fees as well as Residency fees.

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