The Hispanic Heritage Foundation announced that world renowned flamenco superstar, choreographer and artistic director Joaquín Cortés will perform during the 25th Hispanic Heritage Awards, the annual celebration of Hispanic excellence and premier event of Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States.
Often referred as the King of Flamenco, Cortes ‘s style, a blend of flamenco, ballet and jazz soon became his trademark, which contributed to the success of famous names, such as Giorgio Armani and Valentino offered to create costumes for his shows. Few people had heard flamenco
before Joaquin Cortes, the Spanish balaor (dancer) revolutionized dance with his sensual movements and passion.
Famous flamenco dancer has traveled the world with the Spanish National Ballet, performing in important venues such as the Cosmopolitan Opera House of New York and the Kremlin Palace in Moscow. During his time with the Spanish National Ballet, he also became a principal solo performer known for his extraordinary stamina and athletic ability. With the arrival of the 21st Century, Cortés shifted his focus from dancing to choreography and artistic direction. He continues to dance however in exclusive appearances and venues, such as on U.S. television program Dancing with The Stars in May of 2007 and at the White House where former U.S. President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura were in attendance during the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month on September 15, 2004.
“To have Mr. Cortés perform during the 25th anniversary of the Hispanic Heritage Awards is a thrill and an honor. We’re delighted to have him grace us with his extraordinary abilities, especially now that Flamenco has been designated Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO.
Through his dance performances, Joaquín has always kept alive the passion and feelings of Flamenco. This year, the HHAs hope to be the ideal venue for this distinguished balaor since the awards promote the arts, excellence and, above all else, Hispanic traditions. In this manner, he will be able to convey – in his unique style – the essence and vigor that have characterized two centuries of Flamenco tradition,” said Maria-Esmeralda Paguaga, Executive Producer of the HHAs.
Former honorees of the Hispanic Heritage Awards include prominent Latinos from various fields such as Celia Cruz, Oscar de la Renta, Isabel Allende, Tito Puente, Rita Moreno, Ricky Martin, Plácido Domingo, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Edward James Olmos, Andy García, Mana, Juan Luis Guerra, Alejandro Sanz, Don Francisco, among others.
The Hispanic Heritage Awards (HHAs) were established in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan and the White House to commemorate the creation of Hispanic Heritage Month, which spans from September 15th to October 15th. Over the last 25 years, the HHAs have grown into one
of the most prestigious awards in the United States, honoring Hispanic excellence, leadership, and accomplishments in the fields of Arts, Education, Leadership, Vision, Business, Math & Science, Sports and Legend. The contributions of these individuals have inspired, empowered
and improved the lives of Hispanics in the United States and the world.
