The Sevillian town of Marchena It is a fundamental enclave in the history of flamencoLocated in the heart of the countryside, surrounded by La Puebla de Cazalla, Morón de la Frontera, Paradas and CarmonaIts streets have been the protagonists of a flamenco history that has been woven year by year, figure by figure, cante a cantethird by third. And perhaps more importantly, uniting with fine gold two such distinct forms in our art as Castilian and Gypsy. Few territories flamencoThey can boast of this flamenco amalgamation, which is lived there with total and absolute normality, leaving aside discussions that, thank God, have passed on to a better life.
Strolling through Marchena is a pleasure. A pleasure and a delight. jondoSeeing its streets, smelling its squares, feeling the pulse of its alleyways… And if we add to that hearing things from flamencoFrom its history, from the wines that pair perfectly with tapas and the guitar strumming of the Melchor, the pleasure ascends several steps (of the finest marble). And furthermore, with an unforgettable saeta performed by José Manuel González, to the plants of Our Father Jesus.
"A packed house. But low attendance considering the organizers' aspirations for the future. And Juan Suárez with his Marchena rhythm on the drum. And Melchor de Juan, so young, doing things that are in his blood. And Melchor adding a touch of Maestranza theater."
“The taste of flamenco Marchena” That's the name of the project. And these initiatives, which look to flamenco From other perspectives, with other formats, they must be promoted. It is important that the authorities support these proposals and that art flamenco be confused with the culture of wine and with the smell of the streets, with the people and with the faith of our elders.
Victor Moran He has searched the chalky soils of Jerez de la Frontera to bring the best wines from the winery Sánchez Romate (palo Cream Look at me when I talk to you, Marismeño Sherry, Oloroso Don José and the Pedro Ximénez I'm going to get lost). And along with the things of Pepe Palanca in San Sebastián, those of Pepe Marchena In San Miguel and the Melchores festival in San Juan, feelings and sensations were heightened. The work of the City Council's Tourism and Culture staff and the catering team was also magnificent. Rafael Meléndez, from Las Cabezas de San Juan, pairing with cheeses, dressed potatoes, pork rinds and spinach.
Incidentally, a great turnout. Packed to the rafters. But not nearly enough for the organizers' future aspirations. There are often too many people who are superfluous in too many places, but there, nobody was superfluous. Juan Suarez with its marching rhythm on the drum. And Melchor de JuanSo young, doing things that are in his blood. And Melchor —it's a pleasure to see him moving around his town, among his people— giving a touch of the Maestranza theater.
A stroll through Marchena that was pure bliss. Congratulations!
