National Institute of Flamenco

The National Institute of Flamenco, a 501c3 non profit, was established in 1982 by Eva Encinias. It is an internationally significant arts organization, unparalleled in its breadth and depth of flamenco programming. 

The Institute provides arts experiences rooted in excellence, while creating international connections and investing in local and national artists. For four decades, the Institute has enriched the City of Albuquerque, the U.S. Southwest, the Americas, and beyond through the art of flamenco music and dance.

The Institute proudly partners with the University of New Mexico (UNM), whose Department of Theatre and Dance is home to the only accredited dance program in the United States in which flamenco is a concentration (BA, BAIA, MA, MFA).

Here is a glimpse into some of our programming:

• TABLAO FLAMENCO ALBUQUERQUE: Experience Flamenco Dinner and Matinee Shows every weekend at Tablao Flamenco Albuquerque, centrally located in the heart of the city at Hotel Albuquerque. Make a reservation here.

• CONSERVATORY OF FLAMENCO ARTS: The Conservatory of Flamenco Arts is the school of the National Institute of Flamenco. We offer classes for all levels, ages, and abilities. Register here.

• FLAMENCO IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD: Discover free flamenco classes at your nearby community centers . At The National Institute of Flamenco, we empower New Mexican youth through culturally rich arts, focusing on flamenco. Learn more here.

• FESTIVAL FLAMENCO ALBURQUERQUE: Every year, NIF and other partners host Festival Flamenco Alburquerque, the largest and most prestigious flamenco festival outside of Spain. Join us for the 38th Anniversary Flamenco Festival!

Additionally, we have the following:

• NIÑOS & TEEÑOS STUDENT COMPANIES: These pre-professional dance companies, part of the Conservatory of Flamenco Arts, provide rigorous training and multilple performance opportunities throughout the year. Admission is based on teach recommendations, and selected students undergo intensive flamenco training to prepare for a professional career. 

• YJASTROS - THE AMERICAN FLAMENCO REPERTORY COMPANY: Founded in 1999, Yjastros is an innovative flamenco dance company that blends the authenticity of traditional flamenco with contemporary influences. under the direction of Joaquin Encinias, Yjastros bridges cultural divides and enriches the dance world through dynamic performances. The company performs twice a year in the Spring (April) and in the Fall (November). They rehearse year round, 32 weeks a year.