COMPAÑÍA SOPHIA SPANISH DANCE COMPANY IN COLLABORATION WITH THE EMBASSY OF SPAIN IN SOUTH AFRICA PRESENTS: ALMA FLAMENCA
An authentic and vibrant blend of Flamenco, Danza Estilizada (Classical Spanish Dance) and Contemporary Spanish Dance, bringing the passion, elegance and diversity of Spanish dance to the stage.
Audiences can look forward to the atmosphere and excitement of traditional Flamenco, reminiscent of the tablaos of Spain, with elaborate costumes, expressive movement and all the elements that make Flamenco such a captivating theatrical experience.
From the intricate rhythms of castanet works to the infectious energy of Bulería and Rumba, the programme moves between powerful footwork, dynamic rhythms and moments of striking musicality. Classical Spanish repertoire is also represented through works such as La Boda de Luis Alonso, showcasing the elegance, precision and theatrical character of Spanish dance beyond Flamenco.
With multiple costume changes, traditional Spanish props including shawls and fans, and selected multimedia elements that bring imagery of Spain and the dancers themselves into the performance, Compañía Sophia creates a visually rich and varied production.
Featuring choreography by Carli Olivier, alongside works by renowned Spanish choreographers, the programme celebrates the many faces of Spanish dance – from the raw energy and passion of Flamenco to the refinement of Classical Spanish Dance and the freedom of contemporary interpretation.
A true feast for the senses, the programme offers something for everyone: rhythm and energy, elegance and beauty, tradition and contemporary expression, all brought together in one vibrant celebration of Spanish dance.
COMPAÑÍA SOPHIA
Founded and led by Spanish dance artist Carli Sophia Charlotte Olivier, Compañía Sophia has established itself as a leading Spanish dance company in South Africa, captivating audiences through a series of acclaimed and sold-out productions.
Since its debut at the Etienne Rousseau Theatre in Sasolburg, the company has performed at prestigious venues including Pieter Toerien’s theatres in Johannesburg and Cape Town, Oude Libertas and the Etienne Rousseau Theatre, as well as performing nationally and abroad. Its repertoire includes original productions such as Recuerdos, Romanza and Sueños, alongside performances and collaborations across the South African arts and cultural landscape.
Compañía Sophia has collaborated with a diverse range of artists and organisations, including renowned guitarist James Grace, underwater photographer Ilse Moore, the South African Lipizzaners, WGRUV and Spanish-born artist Lourdes Zelaya. The company has also performed nationally as part of Last Night of the Proms with conductor Richard Cock.
At the heart of Compañía Sophia is a commitment to presenting Spanish dance in its many forms, combining the tradition and artistry of Flamenco with Classical and Contemporary Spanish Dance.
The company continues to create original productions under the artistic direction of Carli Olivier, bringing together established repertoire, new choreography and collaborations to create engaging theatrical experiences that celebrate Spanish dance and culture.
CARLI OLIVIER
Founder | Artistic Director | Choreographer | Principal Dancer
Carli Sophia Olivier is the founder and artistic director of Compañía Sophia and Carli Spanish Dance Productions, and an accomplished principal dancer, teacher and choreographer with a lifelong dedication to Spanish dance.
Carli holds the international Professor de Baile qualification, achieved under the tutelage of Dame Luisa Cortes, and has directed and choreographed eighteen original productions. Her work encompasses Flamenco, Classical and Contemporary Spanish Dance, with a particular focus on bringing the richness and diversity of Spanish dance to the stage.
Her choreography has been presented at leading South African venues and as part of significant Spanish dance productions, including España, the South African Spanish Dance Society’s 50th anniversary celebration, where her choreography Cordero de Dios was featured. She later directed and organised the Society’s 58th and 60th anniversary productions, further contributing to the development and celebration of Spanish dance in South Africa.
Carli was nominated for a Naledi Theatre Award for Best Performance in Dance and Physical Theatre in 2024. She is also a recipient of the Spanish Dance Society President’s Award, recognising her contribution to the Society and the development of Spanish dancers in South Africa, and the GTCOC Ambassador of Culture Award, recognising her contribution to the cultural landscape.
Carli is an executive committee member and international examiner for the Spanish Dance Society, contributing to the assessment and development of Spanish dance at an international level.
She travels annually throughout Spain, particularly in the south, including Jerez, to immerse herself in the current Flamenco landscape and attend the annual Festival de Jerez, ensuring that her artistic practice remains connected to the international Spanish dance community.
Throughout her career, Carli has also worked internationally, including in the United States, Australia, Thailand, Mauritius and Zimbabwe .
