About Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater
The Ensemble Español, preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025-26, grew from an exciting Spanish dance performance at Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, in 1976. Led by founder, Dame Libby Komaiko and a group of 5 young dancers whom had returned from an intense study with the legendary Spanish dancer, Jose Greco, this packed theater performance would set the path for an American company to present, promote, and preserve the art form of Spanish dance and music with all communities.
Under the dynamic direction of Artistic Director, Irma Suarez Ruiz and Executive Director, Jorge Perez, the company continues to expand its artistry and repertoire performing classical, escuela bolero, folkloric and Flamenco contemporary and traditional dances of Spain with live music.
Under their leadership, the company continues its mission by presenting, promoting and preserving important works of the past and commissioning new ones. In all, more than 157 works by over 90 artists are part of the company’s repertoire.
With 20 adult professional dancers, singers, musicians, and guest artist(s), the Ensemble presents programs in 2 hour concert formats with intermission or 90 minutes with no intermission. The company also appears with opera, film, chamber ensembles, festivals, conventions and symphony orchestras, including with the Chicago Symphony.
National & International Performances
National & International Performances & Award Winning Film Accolades
The company has gone on to perform for millions of audience members in the U.S. throughout Chicago, Midwest, east coast and in 6 countries –Mexico, Costa Rica, China, Australia, Puerto Rico, Poland and Spain. They have performed for millions more through television broadcasts of the World Cup in 1994, festivals and in film and Emmy winning documentary screenings, and online platforms.
Our Shows
“Breathtaking” – CHICAGO TRIBUNE
FLAMENCO PASSION - This program combines a mix repertoire of flamenco dances from Andalucia, the southern part of Spain, accompanied with live musicians. Included in this program our traditional and contemporary works in the folkloric, Escuela Bolera and neo-classical styles with a flamenco theme to original musical compositions. Included in this program are works by artistic director, Irma Suarez Ruiz and guest artists Nana Lorca, Ana Gonzalez, Juan Mata, Juanjo Linares, Paco Alonso, Paloma Gomez, Jose Barrios, Raquel Gomez, Angel Rojas, La Lupi, Isaac Tovar, Ron de Jesus, Nana Lorca, Antonio Najarro and Dame Libby Komaiko.
“Phenomenal” – CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
BOLERO- 50th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION - This program, in honor of the company’s 50th anniversary, combines the rich Spansh/Flamenco classical works by founder Dame Libby Komaiko to include her critically acclaimed Bolero by composer, George Bizet. Other master works include: Ecos de España by Rimsky Korsokov; Leyenda & Romance de Triana by Isaac Albéniz; Danza del Fuego/Dance of the Fire by Pablo de Luna; Tiempos de Goya by Enrique Granados. Flamenco suites include Caracoles, Memorias de Vidas Gitanas with poems by Federico García Lorca and Pablo Neruda, and Flamenco Zapateado inspired by the legendary Spanish dancer, José Greco
“Amazing… Wowed the audience” -THE NEW YORK TIMES
MAR DE FUEGO - revolves around the imagery and dramatic journey of internationally renowned mastermind dancer and choreographer, Carlos Rodríguez. Authentically costumed with lighting designs by Luis Perdiguero and Dustin Derry, this program will take you into the passionate and romantic journey of Carlo’s unique contemporary Spanish dance journey to original music compositions by José Nieto, Juan Parilla, and music by Estrella Morente and Miguel Poveda.
“One of the most complete educational programs I have ever experienced” – Judie Green, Development CEO, AUDITORIUM THEATRE
TALES OF SPAIN - This full-length one hour multi media Spanish dance and Music lecture concert for grade and high school students and families features 8 – 16 professional dancers and musicians. This program will lead young audiences through the variety of Spanish dance styles, and their historical significance on traditional and contemporary culture. With beautiful panoramic videos representing the different provinces in concert, young audiences will be transported to the cultural richness and diversity of Spanish dance.