Spanish Sunday – 24 May | Walled Garden, Upton Country Park
Join us this Spanish Sunday for an unforgettable journey into the rhythm, passion, and percussive soul of Andalucía. Set within the beautiful Walled Garden at Upton Country Park, the atmosphere will be transformed into a vibrant celebration of Andalusian culture.
At the heart of this experience is the internationally acclaimed, award-winning trio Flamenco From Spain – artists at the very pinnacle of flamenco performance.
Flamenco From Spain
Rebeca Ortega: a breathtaking stage presence
Direct from Seville, Rebeca Ortega is a flamenco dancer of exceptional artistry and worldwide acclaim. Having captivated audiences across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, she brings a powerful and deeply expressive style to the stage. Rebeca doesn’t simply dance to the music – she becomes it.
Nominated for Best Female Dancer at the Seville Scenarios Awards 2024, she is celebrated for her groundbreaking production The Rebellion of Silence. Her work blends traditional flamenco with physical theatre and elements of circus, creating a striking and contemporary voice within the art form. Whether performing at the Edinburgh Fringe or representing Spain internationally, her breathtaking stage presence leaves a lasting impression.
Ramón Ruiz: one of the UK’s most sought-after Flamenco guitarists
Providing the harmonic heartbeat of the trio is Ramón Ruiz, one of the UK’s most sought-after flamenco guitarists and composers. Born in Granada and artistically forged in Seville’s legendary tablaos – including the prestigious Los Gallos – Ramón has spent decades mastering his craft alongside some of flamenco’s finest.
His latest album Calle Lunga, recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, reflects nearly 40 years of dedication to the genre. A true storyteller on guitar, Ramón seamlessly bridges traditional puro flamenco with contemporary influences from jazz and the Middle East. His career has taken him to renowned stages including the Royal Albert Hall and London’s Jazz Café, as well as appearances on BBC radio and television. His playing combines technical brilliance with deep emotional resonance.
Carlos Lobo: The voice of Jerez
Completing the trio is Carlos Lobo, a powerful flamenco vocalist whose voice carries the deep, ancestral roots of Jerez. A puro singer in high demand across Seville’s tablao scene, Carlos brings raw intensity and authenticity to every performance.
His voice adds a vital emotional depth to the ensemble, grounding the music in flamenco’s rich traditions while allowing it to soar with expressive freedom. Alongside his flamenco work, recent collaborations with Scottish and Welsh National Opera highlight his versatility and artistry.
Together, these three outstanding performers create an electrifying and deeply moving flamenco experience – an essential highlight of the Purbeck Guitar Festival.
The soul of Spanish Sunday
Spanish Sunday (May 24th) at the Purbeck Guitar Festival is dedicated to the fire and passion of Spanish Music.
The Sunday lineup is a journey through rhythm and culture and also includes…
Juan Martín: The world-renowned flamenco master and a cornerstone of the festival.
Carlos Bonell: A classical legend described as a “player of superb poetic gifts.”
Flamenco Meets Maqam: An East-meets-West fusion of Arabic melodies and Andalusian harmonies.
Flamenca! & Miki Cruz: Ensuring the energy stays high with vibrant dance and timeless Latin ballads.
The Festival experience
While Rebeca y Ramon bring the fiery soul of Andalusia to Sunday, they are part of a massive weekend of music that kicks off with a completely different energy. Rock-it Saturday (May 23rd) is our high-octane tribute to the power of the electric guitar. From the psychedelic folk-rock of our festival headliner, Donovan, to the stadium-filling anthems celebrated by The Story of Guitar Heroes, Saturday is designed for those who love their music with a bit more “crunch.” It’s a full day of Blues, Jazz, Indie, and Rock, creating an electric atmosphere in the Walled Garden before we settle into the Spanish rhythms of the following day.
While the music takes center stage, the Walled Garden at Upton Country Park provides a sensory experience like no other.
Take a break in our Pop-up Courtyard Cafe and Bar. Rock-It Saturday will have a BBQ whilst Spanish Sunday visitors are in for a special treat: of Spanish Tapas served all day to complement the Mediterranean rhythms.
Best of all, your ticket helps support the Dorset Wildlife Trust, aiding in the protection of our local nature reserves and rare species.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Andalusia. Tickets for Spanish Sunday are moving fast—don’t miss out!
Rock-it Saturday!
23 MAY: 11:00 AM – 10.00 PM
Rock-it Saturday features the legendary Donovan, The Story of Guitar Heroes, Gary Cain, Galaxy Thief, Chris Cocoran, Laura Snowden and Callum Buckley.
Spanish Sunday!
23 MAY: 11:00 AM – 8.00 PM
Immerse yourself in Spanish and Latino rhythms, and fiery Flamenco dancing. Featuring the world-renowned master of Spanish guitar Juan Martin, Rebeca y Ramon, Flamenco meets Maqan, Carlos Bonell, Flamenca!, and Miki Cruz.