Victor Kolstee and Rosario Ancer
About
Flamenco Rosario develops dance and music in traditional and contemporary innovative styles of flamenco.
The company shares its passion for flamenco’s raw power through the annual Vancouver International Flamenco Festival, Artist-in-Residence, Creative Residency, 3-year Professional Training Program, as well as many performances and community classes. Under the direction of Artistic Director Rosario Ancer and Musical Director Victor Kolstee, the company was founded in 1989.
As an interpreter of flamenco dance, Artistic Director, Rosario Ancer, is interested in growing and evolving the art form. She explores the possibilities of flamenco by crossing the boundaries of history and culture, incorporating dancers from other traditions and collaborating with international dance artists, musicians and vocalists in the development of new work.
Rosario Ancer
How it all started
From the start, Rosario Ancer and Victor Kolstee were motivated by a shared vision to introduce flamenco to Vancouver and expand its reach to other communities.
At the time of their arrival, flamenco was often viewed as a relic of the past, lacking relevance in contemporary art. This motivated us to change the narrative—not only by performing but by introducing it as an essential part of Canadian arts.
Both Rosario and Victor brought extensive knowledge and experience, having trained and performed in Spain with leading flamenco companies. Their expertise, combined with their interactions with Canadian choreographers, allowed them to shape Flamenco Rosario into a dynamic and evolving organization it is today.
Vancouver International Flamenco Festival
A central part of this mission is the Vancouver International Flamenco Festival (VIFF), which Flamenco Rosario has produced since 1990. As Canada’s first flamenco festival, VIFF has grown from a small event into a major cultural platform attracting world-renowned artists and audiences.
The Festival showcases the full spectrum of flamenco, from traditional performances to experimental works. Through this event, Flamenco Rosario has elevated Flamenco’s visibility and fostered a strong, collaborative community of artists across Canada.