Atlantic Flamenco / Maria Osende Flamenco Co.

Maria Osende Flamenco Co. is a company dedicated to bringing the soul of Spain to the heart of Atlantic Canada. The company was founded by Maria Osende, a Spanish choreographer and dancer who moved to Canada in 2004 and has since been living and working in the country. They have a strong presence in the Atlantic provinces, from Newfoundland to Vancouver, touring extensively and performing at many multicultural festivals. The company was formally incorporated as the Atlantic Flamenco Productions Society in 2018. Atlantic Flamenco /Maria Osende Flamenco Co. “The company” refers specifically to the artistic and creative work carried out by Maria Osende, and there are no box office or administrative staff. Indeed, one can say that the company is Maria Osende. They work under this title as it creates a structure and a brand and it is how many artists run their artistic and creative work. Osende’s projects include small or large-scale shows that she might adjust or reconfigure based on the requirements of a particular project. The shows may include Osende’s dancers and musicians working in Halifax, or they may include her collaborations with other artists and institutions in Canada and other countries. Osende is a very experienced and skilled dancer and choreographer. Osende has created more than 30 pieces over the past 18 years of her career. This includes full-length shows, solos, special events, and choreographies created in collaboration with other artists. These have involved artists from Spain, Germany, and other countries, who are part of her research and artistic explorations. Osende’s creative work changes and evolves, and some shows, such as her most recent project, La Cosa, push the boundaries of flamenco's traditional form while others, such as her transition, meet it squarely. Osende is a unique artist who has spent over a decade as a soloist with the National Ballet of Spain, the Berlin Ballet in Germany, and contemporary dance. This included dancing with dancers from all over the world, from classical Bharatanatyam to contemporary dance. Osende's versatility and dance range allow her to adapt to different styles while creating a unique piece that combines flamenco dance with other genres. Additionally, the Atlantic Flamenco Festival has been one of the significant projects and movements Osende has created as a platform for flamenco culture and dance.