Dance with Faustino R.

Faustino began his career in Flamenco at the tender age of ten studying with Ramon de los Reyes in Boston. At the age of fourteen, he debuted with the Ramon de los Reyes Spanish Dance Theater in Boston’s New England Life Hall. At the age of sixteen he moved to Houston, TX to continue his study of Flamenco with Rogelio Rodriguez and in workshops with Luisa Triana, Nana Lorca, and he great Jose Greco. Mr. Greco was so impressed with this young dancer that he recruited Faustino for a six-month tour with his company. Following this introduction to the life of a national touring artist, he was hired by Charo of television and nightclub fame to be part of her Flamenco Review. During his tours with Charo, Faustino appeared in two Super Bowl half time shows, three Jerry Lewis Telethons, and a video produced by Charo entitled Blame it on the Macarena in which he performs a spectacular solo at the conclusion of the video. Faustino toured back and forth between Mr. Greco and Charo while filling in gaps in tours with appearances with the Maria Benitez Flamenco Company, the Boston Flamenco Ballet, Omayra Amaya Flamenco Sin Limite, and with solo appearances with the Houston Grand Opera and Opera Omaha just to mention a few. Most recently, Faustino was the featured dancer and Director/Choreographer for the Columbia Restaurant Dance Company in Tampa, FL. While in this position he was named Entertainer of the Year by the Tampa, Florida Bureau of Tourism. *** Lesson Details *** Flamenco for beginning adults and children of at least 6 years of age. Private or group classes are for students ranging from beginners with no experience to professionals. Students should have appropriate shoes. Women should have a loose fitting long skirt and men should have long pants. Advanced female students may need additional props such as a manton (Spanish shawl) and a fan. Castanets are optional for private lessons, but are recommended. Lessons are hourly unless otherwise arranged. *** Specialties *** Taconeo (footwork); brazeo (arms); figura (body); castanets; capework; performance; flamenco rhythms; and choreography.