Rafaela Carrasco | Smoke | Dance

Description

In 1813, nearly 6,000 women joined the workforce of the Royal Cigar Factory of Seville. They joined the 23,000 women already manufacturing tobacco in factories in Cádiz, A Coruña, and Gijón throughout Spain. Just days after its premiere at Matadero Madrid, choreographer Rafaela Carrasco, winner of the 2023 National Dance Prize and so beloved and admired by the Seville public, returns to the Maestranza Theatre with a new show.

"Humo" (Smoke) is a tribute to the women who, 150 years ago, inspired, among others, the character of Carmen—the cigar makers who, unintentionally, made history and entered the realm of legend. The daily lives of nine of these women are depicted on stage through nine separate choreographic pieces. The dance and song express diverse realities that clash with certain feminine stereotypes passed down from generation to generation.

"Humo" (Smoke) is a tribute to the women who, 150 years ago, inspired, among others, the character of Carmen—the cigar makers who, without intending to, made history and entered the realm of legend. Through the protagonists of the story, Rafaela Carrasco's new work is a profound reflection on the female condition and its transformations throughout the last few centuries. The joys and sorrows of this group have much in common with those of so many women, even today. The authentic Carmen remains relevant.