Che Malambo (Al Hosn Festival)

This powerhouse of an all-male Argentinian dance company excites audiences with its percussive dance and music performances. Malambo, a dynamic blend of precision footwork, rhythmic stomping, drumming and song, is at the heart of the gaucho (South American cowboy) tradition and is now thrilling audiences around the world in a production by renowned choreographer Gilles Brinas. Brinas, who lives in Paris, learnt about Malambo while researching traditional dance and soon fell under its spell. He travelled to the Pampas region of Argentina to engage with the gaucho and to explore their traditions. Inspired by their dance and talent, he created Che Malambo to share this powerful, passionate form with international audiences.

In addition to Zapateo, Malambo features the drumming of traditional Argentine bombos and whirling boleadoras, which are weapons of intertwined cords weighted by stones. Since its premiere in Paris in 2007, Che Malambo has performed around the world, including a highly successful 32-city tour in the 2015-2016 season.