Quimeras @ The Edinburgh Playhouse

The theme of migration, and the mixing of traditions from different countries, seems to fit the remit of this year’s Edinburgh International Festival perfectly. In a programme that embraces cultural diversity, the Spanish Paco Peña Flamenco Dance Company’s collaboration with African performers provides the framework required for a visually and mentally stimulating work. The piece, however, fails to fully connect with the audience and the effect is a somewhat one-sided affair in which a simultaneous climax is never reached.

Flamenco is an innately self-indulgent style. Even Quimeras’ fusion with African music and dance cannot detract from this. Such individualism suits the beginning of the piece remarkably well as the sense of separateness between the performers exaggerates the lack of integration felt between the Spanish natives and the African outsiders. The dance styles provide a visual contrast: the upright majesty of the Spanish flamenco juxtaposed with the earthbound, primal stamp of Africa. The division persists throughout and makes a stronger impression than the final section’s attempt at joyous unity.

A much faster pace in the second half encourages a more enthusiastic audience response than in the first act’s repetitive homage to Africa. The latter part is more heavily saturated with flamenco and a series of intricate solos are greeted with delight. Music takes on a largely supportive role but Paco Peña himself maintains a presence that is prominent, yet humbly so. Although each performer appears to be engrossed in the work, teamed with the cold lighting and starkly furnished stage, warmth is never transmitted further than the proscenium arch and Quimeras remains largely inaccessible.