Fiery dance show in offing

.

The critically acclaimed Flamenco troupe Arte Kanela Flamenco from Melbourne are set to wow Bay audiences this November with their unique, hair-raising dance act.

Hawke's Bay will be treated to two nights of stirring and emotionally charged performances from the talented troupe as part of the inaugural Harcourts Hawke's Bay Arts Festival beginning on October 27.

Having performed at some of the world's most illustrious music festivals the group have earned a reputation for producing dynamic shows that transcend cultural and musical boundaries.

The group, formed in 1991, is led by the exceptionally gifted Tedesco brothers.

Principal dancer and choreographer Johnny Tedesco is the most sought-after male flamenco dancer in Australia.

Mr Tedesco said that his team are "at the forefront of all things flamenco" and their dedication to the art has contributed to their success.

"We have been doing this all our lives and go to Spain every year to study the dance."

It will be the troupe's first visit to the Bay having performed at Womad NZ and the Taranaki Arts Festival.

"We absolutely love New Zealand," Mr Tedesco said.

"We always meet such great people and the backdrop is just beautiful."

He said audiences can expect a "bit of a mix" from traditional flamenco to fusing the style with jazz and contemporary music.

"You will get a taste of both worlds and see some pretty fiery footwork."

His passion for flamenco drives him.

"We love to live the art," Mr Tedesco said.

Festival director Pitsch Leiser was especially excited about seeing the flamenco troupe.

"Heralded as one of the most exciting forces in the Australian flamenco music scene, Arte Kanela has been wowing audiences at festivals throughout Australasia," Mr Leiser said.

Arte Kanela offers a new perspective to a conventional and age-old art form.

They promise a visceral and intimate connection with audiences.

Don't miss out on a heart-stopping adrenaline-filled night of electric flamenco dancing.

Catch them on Friday, November 6 at 6pm, and Saturday November 7 at 7.30pm at the Famous Spiegeltent located at the Havelock North Domain.

Admission ranges from $39-$49 and can be purchased through 0800 BUY TIX (289 849), online at www.hbaf.co.nz or at the Hastings and Havelock I-SITE centres.