With heart-pounding energy, fiery passion, and blazing raw talent, the Argentinian men of Malevo are set to heat up the Concert Hall this summer in their Australian debut.
Malevo’s explosive dancing and drumming will take over the Sydney Opera House in a strictly limited season from 17-21 January, followed by Arts Centre Melbourne from 23-28 January.
First capturing public attention as semi-finalists on America’s Got Talent, the all-male troupe have since toured the globe, sharing stages with the likes of Cirque du Soleil and Latin popstar Ricky Martin.
Named an official Cultural Ambassador to the National Identity of Argentina, Malevo offers an electrifying modern take on the Argentinian folk dance, Malambo.
An unmistakable and percussive style of traditional dance, Malambo is customarily performed solo and barefoot by Gauchos (South American cowboys), handed down from older to younger men.
With their lightening quick and dexterous fusion of dance and drumming, the “South American sensation” combine elements of flamenco and zapateados (stomping) in heeled boots.
The avant-garde dance company use pulsating drums and percussion from hand-held boleadoras (a tool made from leather and stone traditionally used for hunting) in their exhilarating performance.
“We have travelled the world sharing our culture and traditions with people from all walks of life, but we have never been to Australia before,” said director, choreographer and dancer, Matías Jaime.
“We can’t wait to bring our energy to the stage and show audiences Down Under just what we can do!” said Jaime.
“Malevo is true spectacle, set to thrill our audiences. This troupe masterfully merge a traditional cultural practice with contemporary performance, creating a highly original and scintillating experience,” said Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Performance, Ebony Bott.
“The percussive sound and vibration of this high-energy artform in our Concert Hall will make for a truly unforgettable show this summer,” said Bott.
“The live performance is something else: loud, dramatic, and packed with explosive energy and saucy exuberance.” – The Boston Globe
Malevo
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney
Performances: 17 – 21 January 2024
Information and Bookings: www.sydneyoperahouse.com
State Theatre – Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Performances: 23 – 28 January 2024
Information and Bookings: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au (tickets on sale in October)
Image: Malevo (supplied)