Published on 12 April 2019

Immerse yourself in Port Noarlunga’s arts scene

From Spanish dancing to artistic interpretations of our beautiful coastline, the 2019 arts program has something for everyone.

“Often life can get very routine and busy and having moments when you are taken away —  even momentarily — by music, dance or art can help bring back a healthy balance to life.”

So says Flamenco performer Kristy Manuel, who is excited to be part of the City of Onkaparinga’s 2019 arts program.

Kristy, whose image appears on the front cover of the recently launched Port Noarlunga Arts Precinct 2019 Program, is part of Adelaide-based flamenco school and professional performance ensemble Casa de Flamenco. The ensemble presents an intoxicating new show, Romance Flamenco at the Arts Centre (22 Gawler Street, Port Noarlunga) on 12 and 13 July.

Kristy (dance) and Aloysius Leeson (guitar) from Casa de Flamenco have performed together for 15 years at events such as WOMADelaide, and live together with their two children in Morphett Vale.

The pair studied flamenco while living in Spain and the new show, with its rolling castanets, elegant dancing and Spanish music, highlights classical Spanish influences on flamenco.

“It will be a show for everyone: those who love classical music, Spain, or just seeing highly skilled dancers and musicians doing what they love,” Kristy says.

They are thrilled to return to the Arts Centre, where they have enjoyed performing to full houses for the past three years.

“We love the intimate cabaret-style venue of the Arts Centre,” Kristy says. “Flamenco really lends itself to this as it is such an expressive art form and the experience for the audience is really enhanced when it can be seen, heard and felt up-close.

“For the performers it is also ideal to perform in such a venue as flamenco is interactive in nature and as a performer you really feed off of the energy and enthusiasm of the audience.”

Kristy says her family loves being based in the Onkaparinga region and she acknowledges the council’s vital support of the arts and local artists.

“The experience of being in a community with opportunities to participate in the arts is enriching for everyone, from young children to the elderly.”

A wide range of arts performances, events, exhibitions and experiences reflecting local history, character and culture will feature across the two Port Noarlunga venues the City of Onkaparinga owns and operates: the Arts Centre and Sauerbier House (21 Wearing Street).

From tribute acts and original music, to comedy and cabaret — and of course, flamenco —  there’s a great mix of matinee and evening performances and local and visiting artists. Artist in residence programs and exhibitions will feature the full spectrum of visual art styles, including paintings, sculpture, jewellery, textiles and digital media.

The Port Noarlunga Arts Precinct 2019 Program also includes the Walks of Art trail map, showcasing the range of public artworks and arts venues around Port Noarlunga.

Click here to download a copy of the Port Noarlunga Arts Precinct 2019 Program or collect one from City of Onkaparinga libraries and offices.

Visit the Arts Centre or phone 8326 5577 for more information or TryBooking.com for tickets. ­­

Kristy Manuel from Casa de Flamenco