Our Journey: The History of El Duende by Tablao Cordobes
The history of El Duende by Tablao Cordobes: a Barcelona Flamenco icon
The history of Tablao Flamenco Cordobes is undoubtedly the best reference for flamenco in Barcelona. Founded in 1970 under the direction of a family of artists, this tablao has attracted legends of flamenco, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the Barcelona flamenco night scene. It has remained authentic to its historical roots, delivering an authentic flamenco show in Barcelona that honors its rich heritage.
Barcelona, a vibrant Mediterranean city, has always been a melting pot of cultures, welcoming flamenco performances alongside other artistic expressions. Perhaps because of its geographical location that opens up to trade, because of the constant immigration of Andalusians, or just because it is a welcoming city and receiver of all foreign artistic manifestations, was, along with Seville and Madrid, one of the cities where the first singing cafes flourished and one of the places where flamenco was worshiped.
In the 1970s, with limited tourism, La Rambla became the heart of nightlife, where locals enjoyed a sense of freedom during the waning days of Franco’s dictatorship. The area thrived with theaters, cabarets, and bars, creating a lively backdrop for flamenco.
Just next to La Rambla on the Parallel, “revue” shows also gained popularity, featuring dazzling musicals and comedies. Matías Colsada, a well-known revue show entrepreneur, opened a venue at Ramblas 33, naming it El Cordobes after the famed bullfighter. This spot soon became a notable location for flamenco shows in Barcelona.
In this period, Barcelona was also a significant hub for bullfighting. Colsada rented the venue to Joan Gaspart, a prominent businessman and vice president of Barça. The venue launched its flamenco journey with a performance by La Chunga in 1970, quickly followed by the dance company of Irene Alba and Luis Adame.
Their shows were a resounding successand the owners invite Alba and Luis to manage the venue. They passionately curated a lineup that featured all the great flamenco legends of the time: Camarón de la Isla, Fernanda and Bernarda, Chocolate, Pansequito, Turronero, Farruco and many more. This extraordinary list reflects the immense talent that graced the stage of Tablao Flamenco Cordobes.
Over the years, Tablao Flamenco Cordobés has consistently showcased outstanding talent, including Miguel Poveda, Eva La Yerbabuena, Israel Galvan, Manuela Carrasco, Pastora Galván, Jesús Carmona, Jose Maya, Farruquito, El Farru, Patricia Guerrero, making it one of the top flamenco shows in Barcelona. A special mention goes to Mila de Vargas, who shone brightly on this historic stage, until today: Year 2024, 54 years later.
Today, the legacy of this iconic flamenco venue continues with El Duende by Tablao Cordobes. This new, intimate space on La Rambla emphasizes individual recitals and the promotion of young talent, particularly Catalan artists. While honoring traditional flamenco, it opens new avenues for less orthodox expressions, ensuring a dynamic experience in the realm of flamenco and dinner in Barcelona.
For an unforgettable night filled with passion and artistry, don't miss the opportunity to attend an authentic flamenco show in Barcelona at El Duende. Get your flamenco show Barcelona tickets now and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of flamenco in one of the best venues in Spain.
El Duende: The living history of flamenco in Barcelona
Our tablao has transformed the way the art of flamenco is experienced. Strategically located in the heart of Barcelona, our venue has become a reference point for those seeking a deep connection with the tradition of flamenco, one of Spain’s most iconic cultural expressions.
An experience that transcends the ordinary
Unlike other venues, El Duende combines the authenticity of classic flamenco with a modern approach, creating an intimate and immersive atmosphere that can transport the viewer into a sensory experience. Each performance highlights the passion and emotional power of flamenco, while the sounds of guitars, footwork, and singing fill the air with a unique and symbolic energy.
The city of Barcelona, known for its cultural diversity and innovative spirit, has been a privileged stage for flamenco for decades. In this context, El Duende by Tablao Cordobes emerges as a unique proposal that invites people to experience flamenco from its most traditional essence. Always focusing on artistic quality and creating an atmosphere designed to captivate, our flamenco tablao in Barcelona is, without a doubt, an essential place for lovers of this art form.
We invite you to learn more about our history and discover why it is an essential part of Barcelona’s culture that you cannot miss.
Tablao flamenco Cordobes: the inspiration for El Duende
The history of El Duende Barcelona cannot be understood without its connection to the legendary Tablao Flamenco Cordobes, founded in 1970 on Barcelona’s famous La Rambla. Under the direction of a family passionate about flamenco, our tablao attracted legendary figures from the very beginning, such as Camarón de la Isla, Fernanda and Bernarda de Utrera, Chocolate, Farruco, and Pansequito, establishing itself as an essential temple for flamenco lovers, not only in the city but also nationally and internationally.
Barcelona has historically been a cultural crossroads due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean. The first "cafés cantantes" (singer cafés) and renowned tablaos paved the way for a Barcelona that embraced flamenco with enthusiasm, establishing itself as one of the most important cities alongside Seville and Madrid.
El Duende: the new legacy of Tablao Flamenco Cordobes
Following in the footsteps of this tradition, El Duende was born as a visionary project. Its opening in April 2024 marked a new chapter in the flamenco scene of Barcelona, blending the historical roots of Tablao Flamenco Cordobes with a renewed proposal adapted to contemporary audiences. This new space offers a closer, more accessible, and emotional interpretation of what flamenco means, while maintaining the authenticity and artistic quality that characterize its legacy.
It is important to highlight that the original concept of "El Duende" was developed in a small venue on Carrer París, where the closeness to the audience and authenticity were the essence of the project. Today, that same philosophy has been transferred to Las Ramblas in Barcelona and continues to be the driving force of the current El Duende Barcelona, a place where flamenco is experienced in its purest and most traditional form.
Why El Duende is an essential place for flamenco in Barcelona
A wealth of experience in the sector
El Duende by Tablao Cordobes is not just a place to enjoy flamenco; it is the result of over 55 years of tradition and artistic excellence. The connection with the iconic Tablao Cordobes, an international reference in the world of flamenco, ensures that every detail of the performance respects the essence of this art form while adapting to contemporary audiences.
Commitment to the traditional and the modern
Although deeply rooted in flamenco tradition, El Duende Barcelona embraces a modern and accessible approach. This makes it an ideal space for those looking to experience flamenco in its most classic expression, as well as for those who wish to explore new facets of the genre.
A cultural impact in cosmopolitan Barcelona
In a city as rich and diverse as Barcelona, tablaos like El Duende not only preserve the flamenco tradition but also adapt it to a global context. This space not only attracts curious tourists but also serves as a reference point for locals seeking a deep cultural connection.
Barcelona: the ideal home for flamenco
Although flamenco's history began in Andalusia, as mentioned earlier, Barcelona has played a vital role in its evolution and dissemination. In this cosmopolitan and diverse city, flamenco has found an ideal stage to merge with influences from other genres and styles, enriching itself and expanding its reach.
The role of tablaos in the cultural scene
Flamenco tablaos are not just spaces for performances; they are true cultural temples that have defined and shaped Barcelona’s relationship with flamenco. Since their inception, tablaos have been where tradition and innovation intertwine, allowing flamenco to continue evolving without losing its essence.
In the case of iconic tablaos such as El Tablao Cordobes and El Duende Barcelona, their role in the city’s cultural scene transcends simple entertainment. These venues become creative laboratories where artists find the freedom to explore new forms of expression, blending traditional techniques with contemporary influences. This not only enriches the flamenco art but also makes it accessible and exciting for modern audiences.
Flamenco and nightlife in Barcelona
With countless intimate bars and even the most iconic tablaos, flamenco has left an indelible mark on Barcelona’s nightlife. In this context, El Duende stands out as a unique proposal that combines the passion of flamenco with a contemporary approach, offering an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists. In our venue, you can savor an excellent cocktail while enjoying the best flamenco through the performances included in our program.
Global recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
The designation of flamenco as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity has strengthened its presence in the city, attracting visitors from all over the world who wish to live this unique experience.
Barcelona has not only embraced flamenco, it has integrated it into its cultural identity. And while there are numerous places to enjoy live performances, El Duende by Tablao Cordobes stands out as a proposal that combines the best of tradition with a more modern and exciting vision.
How has El Duende adapted to the evolution of flamenco performances and dances?
In its early days, flamenco was an intimate expression lived out in family gatherings and small parties. Over time, the 19th-century "cafés cantantes" marked a significant change by bringing flamenco to a more formal stage and making it accessible to the public. These venues became the epicenter of the development of the dance, singing, and guitar styles that are now pillars of the genre.
In the 20th century, flamenco tablaos took over, offering a professional platform for artists and allowing flamenco to reach unprecedented technical and artistic levels. Today, tablaos like ours have adapted this tradition to modern times, combining authenticity and innovation in every flamenco performance at El Duende Barcelona.
Flamenco dances have also evolved, from more traditional styles like soleá and alegría to contemporary proposals that integrate new movements without losing the essence of the genre. This dynamism is what keeps flamenco alive and in constant reinvention, captivating generations worldwide.
El Duende: Where tradition and innovation meet
From the moment you step through the doors of El Duende by Tablao Cordobes, it is clear this is not just any tablao. Every detail of the space has been carefully designed to create a welcoming and immersive environment where the connection between the artists and the audience is the true star. But what are the most important elements that define El Duende?
What makes El Duende unique?
One of the most distinctive features of El Duende Barcelona is its ability to generate a deep and genuine emotional connection. In our tablao, flamenco transcends the visual and auditory limits, becoming an emotional journey that breaks cultural and linguistic barriers. But what other elements allow you to experience that “duende” that makes it so unique?
Our atmosphere is intimate and immersive: Every detail of the space is designed to maximize the connection between the artists and the audience. The stage layout, the close arrangement of seats, and even the lighting all contribute to creating an atmosphere that invites you to feel flamenco at its fullest expression.
The artists are top-tier: The performances at El Duende Barcelona feature flamenco artists carefully selected for their talent and ability to convey emotions. Each performance is an opportunity to experience the strength and beauty of flamenco in its purest form.
Innovation without losing the essence: While deeply respecting flamenco tradition, El Duende by Tablao Cordobes also embraces experimentation. The performances include contemporary elements that enrich the artistic proposal and make it appealing to both purists and those seeking something new.
Quality in every detail: At El Duende, we are aware that time is an ally to allow each performance to unfold naturally. The strong structure of the shows allows artists to display their full passion and technique, creating unforgettable moments for the audience.
Why call it “El Duende”? The essence behind the name
The creation of El Duende Barcelona was not a simple expansion of Tablao Flamenco Cordobes, but a carefully designed project to capture the purest essence of flamenco. The name "El Duende" has a deep meaning in the flamenco world. According to tradition, "duende" is that indescribable, almost magical force that manifests in a moment of absolute connection between the artist and their art, profoundly moving those who witness it.
This notion, immortalized by poet Federico García Lorca, is the foundation of flamenco: an art form that is not only heard or seen, but felt deeply. It was this concept that inspired us to name our new project "El Duende."
The idea came from the need to create a more intimate and accessible space where this "inexplicable magic" could be felt more closely, where each performance could have the potential to reach that unique moment. Additionally, the first "El Duende," opened on Carrer París, had already embodied this philosophy in its beginnings: a small venue where the closeness to the audience and the authenticity of flamenco were the essence of each performance.
By bringing this concept to the new space on Las Ramblas, El Duende by Tablao Cordobes seeks to preserve that legacy, offering an experience that connects the emotional with the artistic, the modern with the traditional, always guided by the pursuit of that magical moment flamenco calls "duende."
Experience our journey and discover the spirit of El Duende in Barcelona
If you are looking for an authentic experience that combines the magic of flamenco with artistic excellence and an intimate atmosphere, El Duende Barcelona is the ideal place. Many elements make our tablao a must-visit for any lover of art and culture.
Whether you're enjoying a well-deserved vacation in Barcelona or stepping into the world of flamenco for the first time, El Duende by Tablao Cordobes invites you to experience a show that will be etched in your memory. Book your tickets now and discover the emotional strength of an art form that is not only heard or seen but felt deeply.