one4review | On 18, Aug 2026

Flamenc Oh!! takes the passion, precision and traditions of flamenco and throws them into a colourful, exuberant piece of dance theatre that is as much about family as it is about the art form itself.

At the centre is a fiercely traditional flamenco family, headed by a patriarch whose entrance immediately establishes his authority. He strides onto the stage, staring down the audience while singing, before the rest of the family gradually join him. There is a clear hierarchy: the daughter is utterly committed to the flamenco tradition, while the son is something of a disappointment to his parents.

The arrival of a new guitarist begins to disturb that carefully maintained world. Having travelled widely, he has absorbed musical influences from beyond flamenco, including rock and roll, introducing the possibility that the family’s cherished traditions might have to change. The conflict between preserving the past and embracing something new provides the production with its central theme.

The performances are excellent, combining highly accomplished flamenco dancing with physical comedy and a wonderfully varied musical score. The production is also a visual treat, with the choreography and staging creating a genuine sense of spectacle.

The narrative is less successful. Once the inevitable clash between tradition and modernity arrives, the story loses its way a little. Fortunately, the sheer quality of the performances and music more than compensate, and the production never loses its ability to entertain.

A fantastic ovation from the audience at the end demonstrated just how much it had been enjoyed.

This is pure escapism: colourful, energetic and great fun, with outstanding performances and music.

If you’re looking for an hour of entertainment that will transport you somewhere completely different, Flamenc Oh!! is well worth seeing.

****

Reviewed by Howard
Music Hall at Assembly Rooms

Until 30th August (not 19th)