Flamenco music and dancing will be featured at a show set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 20 at the Chilkat Center.
Robert Michaels, a Flamenco guitar virtuoso from Toronto, will perform with his daughter, a Flamenco dancer, and a band for a night of Latin jazz. Michaels has released seven albuams since 1996, including “Allegro,” which won a Juno Award, Canada’s equivalent of a Grammy.
“I saw him perform at an artist showcase in Boise in 2009 when he enthralled the audience with his Latin-Cuban guitar styles,” said Haines Arts Council president Tom Heywood. “He has an audience connection that doesn’t quit. This show is a great opportunity for the whole family.”
Michaels’ most recent album, “Cumabemco,” is a coinage of Cuban and Flamenco, which reflects his mastery of those types of music.
“From the beginning, I didn’t play flamenco or Latin jazz in any traditional way. I had experience playing so many other styles that I merely incorporated all of the influences. My style was never planned. I arrived at it spontaneously while playing in front of the audiences,” said Michaels.
A Toronto Star reviewer said Michaels leaves the crowd spellbound. “They watch him, they listen, they are caught as Michaels’ music travels past the neck of the guitar and creates his signature sound. A sound so intense the listeners must hold their breath.”
Michaels will perform with Anchorage percussionist John Damberg and local bassist Steve Ritzinger. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, $8 for students and $40 for a family. They’re available at the door and at Babbling Book on Main Street. For more information, see robertmichaels.com.