Sol de España: A Legacy of Dance and Culture

At Program, Featured, Member

In the heart of Winnipeg, a vibrant tapestry of Spanish culture flourished within the walls of Sol de España. It all began with the indomitable spirit of Abuela Carmen Cano de Infante, whose love for dance ignited a flame that would burn brightly for generations.

In 1967, Carmen, along with her family, embarked on a journey from Cordoba, Spain, to the distant land of Canada. Despite the miles that separated her from her homeland, Carmen carried with her the rich tapestry of Spanish folkloric dances. Fuelled by a passion for preserving her heritage, Carmen began teaching these traditional dances to her daughters and fellow immigrants.

Within the cozy confines of their family living room in Osborne Village, Sol de España was born. Carmen, her daughters, and two other young women gathered every Saturday, their eager feet tracing the steps of centuries-old dances. As their repertoire grew, so did their ambition to share the beauty and vibrancy of Spanish culture with their community.

In 1986, Sol de España found a new stage as the feature performers of the Pabellon de España during Folklorama, a celebration of cultural diversity in Winnipeg. Their performances captivated audiences, transporting them to the sun-drenched landscapes of Spain with every twirl and flourish.

Over the years, Sol de España became more than just a dance group; it became a cornerstone of the community. Beyond their dazzling performances at festivals and events across Canada, the United States, Spain, and Peru, Sol de España opened its doors to dance enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds. At the Institute of Dance Manitoba, they offered classes where students could immerse themselves in the artistry and passion of Spanish dance.

For the current director of Sol de España, carrying on her family’s legacy is both a privilege and a responsibility. With each step, she honours Abuela Carmen’s dedication to preserving Spanish culture and nurturing a love for dance in future generations. Together with the talented local artists who contribute their skills to the group, Sol de España continues to weave the threads of tradition and innovation into every performance.

As Sol de España prepares to grace the stage once again in Bolero Dance Theatre’s production of “Alice in Wonderland,” they carry with them the spirit of resilience and creativity that has defined their journey. Through dance, they celebrate the legacy of Abuela Carmen and the enduring power of Spanish culture to inspire, uplift, and unite communities across the globe.

If you want to book Sol de España for your show or event, contact [email protected].