With his flawless footwork and ballet-infused moves, Jesús Carmona is “un fenómeno”—a phenomenon—of the flamenco world (New York Times). He brings his palpable charisma to the Damrosch Park Bandshell for a performance of his intensely beautiful Amator, a deeply personal work that draws upon his love of Spanish dance. Experience this masterful feat of electrifying choreography and improvisation, accompanied by onstage orchestration.
This evening of visceral musicality begins with Lahore-born, Brooklyn-based artist Arooj Aftab who is continuing the Sufi tradition with a style that combines Sufi-mystical poetry with the spirit of independent rock. Reworking classical Pakistani and North Indian forms, including thumri, khayal, and kafi, she creates a fascinating mix of sounds and cultures that will float through the night air with lightness and poise. Tonight, Aftab presents new music in collaboration with an exceptional ensemble featuring Maeve Gilchrist, Shahzad Ismaily, Gyan Riley and Greg Fox.