A two-day festival of flamenco and national Spanish music has taken place in Moscow. An award-winning dance expert Mercedes Ruiz was invited to give a master class for Russian flamenco lovers and perform at the festival.

Interest in flamenco dancing has rocketed over the last few years in Russia, and dancers have been rapidly improving their skills and understanding of the concept of the dance. 

Today there are over 20 flamenco schools in Moscow – where it seems the dancers have been making great progress.

“Flamenco is popular in Russia because it is a very expressive form of art.  We're a very emotional and passionate nation, and flamenco helps us to verbalise our feelings. Sometimes that's the best way to share them,” expands Natalia Vorontsova, an organiser. 

The festival's special guest Mercedes Ruiz has dedicated her life to flamenco, and her goal is to pass on her wisdom and help Russian dancers.

“This is my first time in Moscow. I thank flamenco for being here and am able to travel a lot because of my dancing. I 'm hoping to spend a week in Moscow, giving master classes and visiting places. I can’t wait to go to the Bolshoi Theatre,” says Mercedes excitedly.