WHO WE ARE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Monique Leon-Ward, President
Susanna Cruz, Secretary
Carol Ibarra
Linda Vega, Founder
Advisory Board
Dacia Harwood
Diana Vestal
Contact us HERE!
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Maria 'LA Chacha' Bermudez has exposed audiences across the world to the unique style and sound of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain — recognized as the birthplace of Flamenco — and the city where Maria has resided for many years. She is also the founder and artistic director of the Flamenco company Sonidos Gitanos who will be performing at Lobero Theatre on Sunday, November 26, 2023.
Her outstanding and critically acclaimed performances have graced venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, Lope de Vega in Sevilla, Lincoln Center in New York, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles where she recently presented her sold-out show, Flamenco! Fiesta de la Bulería Jerez.
In Santa Barbara, she is the Director of Maria Bermudez Flamenco and Performing Arts, where she inspires a new generation of dancers.
OUR HISTORY
A Vision to Bring Flamenco to Santa Barbara
Our founder, Linda Vega, is known for shaping the course of dance history in Santa Barbara. Her vision to support dancers, collaborate with guest artists from Spain, and expand opportunities for the community continue to guide our mission.
One of the most recognized Flamenco artists in the world, she performed on stages all over the world. Beginning in 1973, she toured extensively with Spain’s top companies, including Rafael de Córdoba, Luisillo, Antonio El Camborio, and many others.
