Google has dedicated its homepage doodle today to the legendary Spanish Romani flamenco dancer Carmen Amaya, who was born on this day in 1913. Amaya is widely regarded as one of the greatest flamenco dancers of all time, who revolutionized the art form with her passion, talent, and charisma.
A humble beginning in Barcelona
Carmen Amaya was born in a poor Romani family in the Somorrostro district of Barcelona, where she lived in a shack near the beach. She started dancing at a young age, following the footsteps of her father, who was a guitarist, and her mother, who was a singer. She performed on the streets and in bars and cafes, earning money to support her family.
Amaya soon caught the attention of local and national audiences with her unique style of flamenco, which combined speed, power, and grace. She wore pants instead of skirts, and danced barefoot or with boots, breaking the traditional norms of female flamenco dancers. She also incorporated elements from other genres, such as jazz and classical music, creating a fusion that was innovative and captivating.
A global sensation in flamenco
In an effort to share her talent with the world, Amaya eventually settled in Buenos Aires, where she established her own flamenco troupe. Together, they embarked on tours that took them from Cuba to Brazil, spreading the art of flamenco far and wide. After a decade of relentless touring, Amaya made her mark in Mexico City. In 1941, she performed in New York, catching the eye of none other than U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who became a devoted fan. This presidential encounter led to an invitation for Amaya to showcase her exceptional skills at the White House, a tremendous honor.
In the later stages of her career, Amaya made her way to Hollywood and ventured into acting, appearing in films like “La Historia de los Tarantos”, where her charisma and talent continued to shine.
A lasting legacy in dance
Carmen Amaya’s extraordinary contributions to the world of flamenco and dance did not go unnoticed. Spain’s government recognized her with the prestigious Medal of the Tourist Merit of Barcelona. Her legacy lives on in the heart of Barcelona, where Montjuic Park features a monument and a fountain dedicated to her memory. Today, her influence continues to inspire and shape the paths of contemporary flamenco dancers worldwide.
On what would have been her 110th birthday, we celebrate the life and achievements of Carmen Amaya, an iconic figure in the world of dance whose passion and talent have left an indelible mark on the history of flamenco. Happy birthday, Carmen Amaya!
