by Marvin Ramírez
Flamenco, an art deeply rooted in Andalusian culture, has found fertile ground for its development and expression in Nicaragua. Over the decades, various schools and teachers have been fundamental pillars in the dissemination and teaching of this dance in the country.
Pioneers of flamenco in Nicaragua
In the 1970s, teacher Lelia González emerged as a key figure in the promotion of flamenco in Nicaragua. After studying in Seville with leading exponents of the genre, González returned to the country to share her knowledge. She founded the Ballet Español Lelia González in 1972, offering training in classical Spanish and flamenco dance. Her dedication laid the groundwork for future generations of dancers and teachers in the country.
Another notable name is Heriberto Mercado, a choreographer and dancer who, starting in 1978, made a significant contribution to the Nicaraguan dance scene. Mercado not only focused on flamenco, but also integrated elements of classical ballet and other dances, enriching the country’s cultural offering. Among his outstanding students is Tesalia Cáceres Vega, who began practicing flamenco periodically since her adolescence.
“I have been practicing flamenco for 22 years. I am from Diriamba, a city full of art in Nicaragua, the land of Guegüense and Diriangén. In my city, learning the different arts of Nicaraguan culture and folkloric ballet is highly promoted,” Cáceres Vega shares.
Schools and academies dedicated to flamenco
The formal teaching of flamenco in Nicaragua has been possible thanks to various institutions and academies that have kept this tradition alive:
- Nicaraguan Academy of Dance: Located in Managua, this academy offers a variety of rhythms, including flamenco, allowing students to explore different dance styles and maintain an active and healthy life.
- Eduardo Rocha Flamenco Academy: Also in the capital, this academy specializes in in-person flamenco classes for different levels. Rocha, Tesalia Cáceres Vega’s teacher, has been a fundamental influence on her career:
- “My first teacher, Heriberto Mercado, taught me to express myself, to feel, to transmit, and my second teacher, Eduardo Rocha, has taught me the structure of the dance, the beat, the meter,” she explains.
The flamenco scene in Nicaragua today
Flamenco in Nicaragua is not only limited to dance, but also has outstanding musicians who have contributed to the development of the genre in the country. “In Nicaragua there are guitarists like Eduardo Araica, Nicaraguan, and Cornelius Holzer, an Austrian, who play very well. There is also Eduardo Rocha, my teacher, and my rehearsal partners, who are excellent. Lenin Triana is the singer and Miguel Ángel Oviedo is the percussionist,” Cáceres Vega explains.
About her experience on stage, Tesalia expresses with passion: “It is indescribable. Strength, passion, fire, rapture.” Her dedication is reflected in the reaction of the public: “People like it a lot and are familiar with the music,” she comments.
Challenges and future of flamenco in Nicaragua
Although it has achieved recognition, flamenco in Nicaragua faces challenges for its development. “I have been very blessed, since I have worked in the creation of shows with some of the most influential families in my country, and with event organizers and owners of prestigious restaurants and hotels in my country,” Cáceres Vega shares.
Regarding the future of flamenco in the country, Tesalia highlights the importance of education from home: “Parents have to plant that seed of love and admiration for the art.” She also mentions that her work does not stop: “We are always presenting our show in different places.”
Inspiration for the new generations
For young people interested in flamenco, Tesalia Cáceres Vega offers clear advice: “Patience, dedication and perseverance.” Her career is a testament to how passion and effort can open paths and consolidate flamenco as a vibrant artistic expression in Nicaragua. With figures like her and the growing flamenco community, this art has a promising future in the country.
