Olé School Performances
Tamara "La Garbancito" has been bringing the vibrant Flamenco tradition from Southern Spain to secondary schools for decades, blending performance with cultural education to highlight the interaction between diverse cultures. Her presentations, customizable for both large assemblies and intimate sessions, utilize dance, music, traditional costumes, and multimedia elements to captivate and educate students and adults alike. Through her engaging approach, Tamara introduces Spain's rich history, geography, customs, and its profound influence on American culture, encouraging active participation from her audience. Students often get the opportunity to don costumes and explore Spanish cultural artifacts up close in workshops following the presentation. Having reached over 300 schools across multiple states, Tamara is dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Spanish culture and its integration into the American societal fabric.
"Students from kindergarten through high school exhibited their enjoyment of the programs by being attentive and enthusiastic, and voice their hope to have La Garbancito back next year."
- Bonnie Diefenfdorf
Elementary Principal, Sacred Heart Elementary and High School, Jefferson City, MO
"I was so surprised by all the hands being raised so they (the students) could have a chance to get up and participate. Tamara kept their minds interested."
- Suzanne Kaullen
PTO President, Lexington R-5 School District
"The objects she brought with her and the music…..allowed the students at Newbury the opportunity to visit a new culture."
- Rose Blair
Counselor, Newbury R-11 School District
"Tamara is dazzling, while being very down to earth, approachable, and very comfortable with the students. She effortlessly engaged students in her workshops, and transitioned easily between sessions. She was very flexible and adaptable without any hint of stress or anxiety. She was in essence – very professional."
- Deborah Tollerton
Principal, Father McCartan Memorial School, Marceline, Missouri
"The presenter, Tamara, a professional educator, mesmerized our student with her knowledge of the Spanish culture, especially the music and dancing……..The students were able to recite Spanish vocabulary and perform Spanish dances by the time Tamara was finished."
- Diane Kassel
Principal, Null Elementary School, St. Charles Missouri
"Tamara and her accompanying guitarist Raul enthralled a wide range of students at our school…….She gave a tremendous amount of enthusiasm and energy to every inspiring performance. After viewing the large assortment of objects they brought, our students sate enthralled or participated in some of the dance moves and learned Spanish words….The high school students were amazed at the complexity of the flamenco rhythm’s and guitar work, and many expressed any interest in learning where they could acquire this music."
- Diana Simmons
Spanish teacher, Neelyville School District, Neelyville, Missouri
To find out more about booking Tamara La Garbancito, just contact us!
Tamara is on the touring artists roster of the Missouri Arts Council, and grants may be applied for through the Arts Council to help defray the expense of bringing this program to your school.