New Mexico's Iconic Holiday Show is Back!

The Holiday Season is upon us and with it returns "La Estrella" for it’s 5th year! Running from December 15-17 at the University of New Mexico, “La Estrella” is New Mexico’s iconic holiday show! To tell you more about is Marisol Encinias, Executive Director of the National Institute of Flamenco.

‘La Estrella’is one of my favorite performances that we present each year.

In crafting this narrative performance, I drew inspiration from my studies of early Spanish literature. The storyline is rooted in the ‘Auto de los Reyes Magos’, also known as ‘Representación de los Reyes Magos’ (‘Representation of the Three Kings’). This literary work is the oldest surviving dramatic text in medieval Castilian dialect, serving as a liturgical drama that unfolds the Epiphany story.

The show delves into the mythical origins of the three kings, exploring the diverse lands from which they come— the Middle East, Africa, and the Occidental. It looks at the symbolism behind the gifts the kings present to the newborn in Bethlehem beneath the guiding star, delving into the significance of gold, myrrh, and frankincense.

‘La Estrella’ concludes with a New Mexico Flamenco version of ‘las posadas,’ recounting the story of Mary and Joseph seeking a place to rest for the night, ‘pidiendo posada.’ The production culminates in a festive celebration in Bethlehem.

"Featuring flamenco music and Spanish and flamenco Christmas carols, ‘villancicos,’ the show features a powerful ensemble of professional musicians, including the beloved Vicente Griego. Guest musicians Ángel Ruíz and Isabel Jurado, guitarist and singer from Córdoba, Spain, contribute their music to this production. For this show, the fantastic dancers of Yjastros: the American Flamenco Repertory Company are joined by a cast of over 100 student dancers and musicians.

"This dynamic flamenco dance and music production is a delightful blend of humor, drama, passion, and joy. I believe that it is an incredible holiday spectacle suitable for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Every year, tears well up as I watch this production. Perhaps it's partly due to the sense of catharsis I feel as we conclude the year, but I genuinely believe that this work is truly special!

I hope you will join us for this extraordinary experience! It's a show that is not to be missed!