Flamenco dance couple comes to Gilford

By MICHAEL KITCH, LACONIA DAILY SUN

GILFORD — The sounds of rapping heels and clicking castanets, accompanied by arpeggios on classical guitar, will fill the Gilford Library on Thursday when Isabel and Roberto Rios, performing as El Arte Flamenco, introduce the music and magic of Andalucia to the Lakes Region with two shows on Thursday, July 28.

Isabel Rios is the stage name of Gladys Clausen, who with her husband, Patrick, moved to New Hampshire last year to succeed Fred and Maureen Clausen in operating the family business, Proctor's Lakehouse Cottages at The Weirs. Roberto is her father Robert Foreman, who also moved to Laconia a year ago.

Gladys has been dancing flamenco since she was a child and is equally well versed in the origins and evolution of the dance as well as the folklore of Andalucia. She said her interest in flamenco began with her father, who has played flamenco guitar since he was a college student.

"It was a family affair," she remarked, explaining that her brothers also danced. Moreover, she said it was easy to nurture her interest in the Boston area where there were many flamenco dancers.

Gladys said she and her father are hoping to kindle interest in flamenco in the region. El Arte Flamenco is available for hire at diverse venues, including festivals, schools, weddings and farmer' markets.

"As long as there is an audience for a desire for culture," she said, "we can be there." She added that she is seeking studio space were she can offer dance classes for all ages.

El Arte Flamenco will present a performance for children at 3 p.m. , featuring an introduction to flamenco pitched to children, a demonstration of the dance and an offer to dance the rumba with volunteers from the audience. The evening performance, beginning at 6:30 p.m. will follow the same format tailored to a mature audience.

For more information El Arte Flamenco can be reached at irflamenco@gmail.com or by calling Gladys directly at 393-5506.

El Arte Flamenco, Roberto Rios and Isabel Rios, along with Monica, Isabel's 3-year daughter, are pictured at Weirs Beach. (Courtesy photo)