The National Flamenco Art Contest (CNAF) has announced the official jury for its 24th edition, while extending the application deadline to October 10. Artists may compete in the national categories of guitar, cante, dance, and a newly introduced award for flamenco instrumentalists.
At a press conference, Isabel Albás, president of Córdoba’s Municipal Institute of Performing Arts (IMAE), and Cristóbal Ortega, director of the Andalusian Institute of Flamenco (IAF), presented the jury that will evaluate participants and select winners. Members include dancers Mercedes de Córdoba and Inmaculada Aguilar, guitarists José María Gallardo and Pablo Salinas, singer David Pino, and Luis Ybarra, director of the Bienal de Flamenco de Sevilla.
Albás emphasized the contest’s role in promoting both tradition and contemporary innovation: “We want to give space to artists who blend flamenco with other genres without losing its roots.” Ortega highlighted institutional cooperation and reaffirmed support for emerging talent: “Our goal is to strengthen this contest and provide opportunities for artists who rise from it.”
Alongside the competition, a parallel program offers seven shows. Highlights include Mercedes de Córdoba’s Olvidadas (a las sin sombrero), Israel Galván’s 20th anniversary performance of La edad de oro, and concerts by singers Rocío Márquez and Rosario La Tremendita. Other events feature Empaque by Chicharrón Circo Flamenco, the children’s production El duende de las emociones by Anabel Veloso, and the Córdoba Orchestra with guitarist Daniel Casares.
The winners will be announced during the final gala on November 22 at Córdoba’s Gran Teatro. Tickets and full details are available at teatrocordoba.es, local box offices, and the IMAE–Teatros de Córdoba mobile app.
Author: World Music Central News Room
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