2025.10.20 The Muse

Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater , founded in 1975 by the visionary Dame Libby Komaiko, has become a cornerstone of cultural expression in the United States. Under the current leadership of Executive Director Jorge Perez and Artistic Director Irma Suárez Ruiz, the organization is dedicated to the preservation, presentation, and promotion of Spanish dance and culture. With a mission that explores the rich tapestry of Spain's history and its influence on Latin American art, Ensemble Español has captivate d audiences with its dynamic performances across various styles, including flamenco, folklore, and classical dance. The Ensemble serves 30,000 school children annually with its arts education outreach programs as part of its ongoing mission.

This year, Ensemble Español celebrates its 50th anniversary with a two-day event at the historic Auditorium Theatre in Chicago on November 14 and 15, 2025. The celebration kicks off with "Tales of Spain," an educational multimedia concert designed for students, showcasing the vibrant rhythms and movements of Spanish dance. The following evening, the full company will perform a stunning concert featuring guest Flamenco musicians, highlighting selections from the company's extensive 50-year repertoire. This milestone event promises to be a memorable celebration of dance, culture, and community.

Said Jorge Perez, "As one of Chicago's cultural treasures, it's an honor to share with all of our communities the legacy of our beloved founder, Dame Libby Komaiko, alongside our artistic director, Irma Suárez Ruiz, the beauty, passion and elegance of the art form of Spanish dance, music, and culture. The Ensemble has been representing a mosaic of world cultures since its inception 5 decades ago exemplifying our mission and vision where art has no boundaries locally, nationally and internationally. Here's to honoring our past, celebrating our present and securing our future for generations to come at our in resident home Northeastern Illinois University. Ole!"