José Maya’s "Lejano": A Masterpiece of Contemporary Flamenco at Suma Flamenca 2025
The world of flamenco has witnessed a transformative moment at the Teatros del Canal in Madrid. José Maya, one of the most influential bailaores of his generation, premiered his latest production, "Lejano" (Distant), as a centerpiece of the prestigious Suma Flamenca 2025 festival. Produced by Leplato Prod, this show marks a before and after in the artist’s career, blending deep-rooted tradition with a raw, avant-garde sensibility.
The Concept: A Journey Into the Soul’s Memory
The title "Lejano" does not refer to physical distance, but to the echoes of the past that reside within the body. In this production, José Maya explores the concept of "the distant" as the ancestral sediment we all carry.
The synopsis reveals a narrative of introspection: a man seeking his identity through the shadows of those who came before him. Maya poses a visceral question: Who are we when the mirror no longer recognizes us? The answer is found in the "distant"—the wound that sings before it speaks and the instinct that survives the passage of time.
A Performance of Stripped-Back Truth
Unlike large-scale commercial productions, Lejano opts for a minimalist aesthetic. The stage is bare, forcing the audience to focus on the emotional transmission between the artists and the spectator.
Maya, known for his technical precision and explosive energy, reveals a more vulnerable side here. For the first time, he bridges the gap between dance and voice, establishing a dialogue with his Gypsy roots and the legacy of masters like El Güito. It is a cathartic experience where the artist sheds his "choreographic corset" to embrace the freedom of the present moment.
The Stellar Cast of "Lejano"
To bring this vision to life, José Maya has surrounded himself with a world-class ensemble that balances purity with modern musicality:
José Maya (Dance & Direction): The central axis, showing total artistry by blending dance with ancestral chanting.
The Voices: The power of Ismael 'El Bola', the depth of José 'El Calli', and the haunting sensitivity of Delia Membrive.
The Music: El Peli on guitar provides the rhythmic backbone, while Batio Hangonyi on cello adds a solemn, chamber-music atmosphere. The heartbeat of the show is maintained by the renowned percussionist Lucky Losada.
About José Maya and Leplato Prod
Born into a legendary dynasty of artists, José Maya has evolved from a child prodigy to a metaphysical investigator of movement. His previous works like Latente and Liturgia paved the way for Lejano, a show that solidifies his position as a leader of flamenco vanguardism.
The production is backed by Leplato Prod, a production house dedicated to high-quality cultural projects that respect the essence of flamenco while pushing the boundaries of stage performance.
Why "Lejano" is a Must-See
Lejano is not just a dance show; it is a spiritual ceremony. Its success at Suma Flamenca and Teatros del Canal confirms that there is a global hunger for authentic, soul-stirring art. For theaters and international festivals, Lejano represents the pinnacle of modern flamenco: a bridge between the "distant" past and the vibrant future of the genre.
Technical Summary for Curators
Title: Lejano
Artist: José Maya
Premiere: Suma Flamenca 2025 (Madrid)
Producer: Leplato Prod
Duration: 75 minutes
Genre: Contemporary Flamenco / Experimental Dance
