Flamenco dance classes coming to Black Mountain Center for the Arts

The Black Mountain Center for the Arts is offering an Introduction to Flamenco class taught by new Black Mountain resident Paola Tinoco, from 7 - 8 p.m., on Mondays.

Tinoco, who moved to the area six months ago, was born in Caracas Venezuela.

“From a very young age I have identified with dance as my best way to express myself,” she said.

Tinoco has experience in gymnastics, ballet, contemporary dance and yoga, but she is most dedicated to flamenco, what she refers to as "my great love."

She has been studying and teaching flamenco, in Carcas and Miami, since 2001, making presentations twice a year and focusing on dancing in "tablao," which means improvisation with live musicians.

“What I love about Flamenco is the complexity of the music, its times, its codes, its pinch genres, everything,” Tinoco said. “I love the story that is told through singing, the guitar and dancing, and the inexplicable passion.”  She currently teaches at Zahiya Studio at downtown Asheville and at Mills Rivers at Naturally Grown preschool and performs in downtown Asheville.

The class is available for ages 10 to adult and cost $45 per month. Individual classes are $15 each and no experience is necessary.

From 7 - 8 p.m., on Monday, Oct. 14, there will be an opportunity to test drive your hips with a free introductory class. Call in advance to reserve your spot.

To register or for more information go to blackmountainarts.org or call 669-0930.