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February 2025: María Avila
Who is María Avila in a sentence?
I am a flamenco artist with a desire to teach, but forever a student to the culture.
Tell us a bit about your work and practice.
I am an established independent dancer, singer, choreographer, and teacher. My past achievements include being awarded a mentorship to study with Myriam Allard (Montréal), receiving professional development grants to study in Spain, as well as performing in the Coetaní Experimental Flamenco Festival in Athens, Greece. In 2015 I launched María Avila Flamenco dance school, and I completed a Master of Fine Arts degree in dance at York University in 2020. I also was the recipient of the Vancouver International Dance Festival Choreographic Award in 2021.
How long have you been dancing?
I started as a child with hip-hop. Then salsa dancing entered my world. No formal training in either, just watching others and dancing with friends. My flamenco training started in 1998.
How does dance fit into your life currently – are there any upcoming projects you want to share with us?
I teach three different levels on Mondays at Scotiabank Dance Centre. I also perform for shows and events with Calle Verde, and other members of the Vancouver flamenco community.
Some exciting upcoming shows include; Blue Horse Opera, Spring 2025, Rick Maddocks album release show at the Pi Theatre. As well as Oscar, Fall 2025, a multi media homage to the life and living legacy of Vancouver’s flamenco dancer Oscar Nieto.
How would you describe dance’s impact on your life?
Dance has provided me with joy, adventure, purpose, inspiration and income.
What three core values drive your engagement with dance?
My three core values in dance are authenticity, musicality and continual learning/growth.
Do you have a particular practice that you carry out each day or have you implemented new practices over these last few years?
I believe in commitment to practice. Flamenco technique is continuous challenging. I also believe is cross training with balance and core strengthening exercises.
What would you say are the most significant benefits for you in being a Dance Centre member?
Being a member is a huge reason I am teaching today. The Dance Centre has made it possible to share what I love with others, providing an affordable, energetic, clean and beautiful space that allows flamenco shoes. I am always grateful for the opportunity to be here.
Maria’s Member Profile
Website
Instagram
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Photos by Arthur Ricane