Che Malambo Comes to Popejoy Hall

Che Malambo takes the stage at Popejoy Hall Friday, April 26, 2019 at 7:30 pm, showcasing the athleticism and grace of traditional Argentinian malambo dancers. A brilliant amalgamation of percussive footwork, ceremonial weapon wielding, and traditional drums, Che Malambo stands as a rich presentation of Argentinian culture. The production features a combination of modern choreography and traditional malambo folk dance, composed by show director Gilles Brinas.

Traditionally practiced by men, Malambo dance originates from the indigenous dance forms of the Incas, Guaranies, and Araucanos. This dance takes place without partnering to allow more expression of the dancers' individual movement. The malambo dance sometimes features props, or artifacts, which the dancers maneuver to add a powerful dynamic to the performance.

Gilles Brinas made his mark as a French choreographer and master dancer when he established the Ballet Dance Educators of America in 1979. In the early 21st century, Brinas traveled to the Pampas region of Argentina and started the company Che Malambo, which has met great success for over a decade. Today, Brinas reflects, "For me, it's a dance. For the dancers, it's a country, but my country's the earth and I love the dance of the earth. There is no frontier for me, there is no flag, only the flag of the art."

Tickets for Che Malambo are currently on sale for $65, $49, $39, and $25. Tickets can be purchased at the UNM Ticket Offices. Online purchasing is available at popejoypresents.com. To charge by phone, call (505) 925-5858. Group orders of 10 or more may be placed by calling (505) 277-1569.