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 Cordobés 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 Cordobés.
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 Cordobés. 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.
