By Rozita Che Omar
The vibrant rhythms and expressive movements of Spain took centre stage at Universiti Malaya during a captivating Flamenco Workshop organised by the Spanish Programme, Department of Asian and European Languages. The event featured a special session conducted by the talented bailadora (flamenco dancer) Davinia Begines, whose graceful performance and interactive teaching brought the true essence of Spanish art and emotion to life.
The workshop, held as part of the department’s ongoing cultural engagement activities, aimed to deepen students’ appreciation of Spanish culture through firsthand experience. It provided a unique opportunity for students and lecturers to connect language learning with cultural expression, an approach that lies at the heart of the Spanish Programme’s teaching philosophy.
The event was organised with the generous support of the Embassy of Spain in Malaysia, whose representative, the Second Head of Mission, Mr. Alonso Herrero, attended the workshop. His presence reflected the strong and enduring partnership between the Embassy and Universiti Malaya in promoting Spanish language and culture in Malaysia. During the workshop, Davinia introduced participants to the art of flamenco, a powerful fusion of dance, rhythm, and emotion deeply rooted in Andalusian tradition. She began by demonstrating the basic postures, clapping techniques (palmas), and characteristic footwork that define flamenco’s dynamic energy. Students were soon clapping along in rhythm, echoing the beat of Spanish compás, while learning to express emotion through movement and gesture.
Davinia also shared insights into the cultural origins of flamenco, explaining how its diverse influences from Gypsy, Arabic, Jewish, and Andalusian cultures, have shaped it into a uniquely expressive art form recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The workshop’s atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and excitement as students and lecturers joined in the dance: laughing, learning, and discovering the cultural depth behind every rhythm and movement. For many students, it was their first encounter with flamenco, and the experience left a lasting impression.
Dr. Rozita Che Omar, Head of the Department of Asian and European Languages, expressed her deep appreciation to the Embassy of Spain for their continued collaboration and support. “Through activities like this, our students can experience Spanish culture beyond the textbook. The language comes alive when they can feel its rhythm, emotion, and artistry. We are grateful to the Embassy for their generosity and for helping us create such memorable cultural experiences,” she said.
The workshop concluded on a high note with a Spanish-style light refreshment, featuring traditional dishes such as tortilla and empanada, generously sponsored by the Embassy of Spain in Malaysia. The gathering reflected the Embassy’s warmth and generosity, offering participants a taste of authentic Spanish flavours to complement the cultural experience of the day. The event ended with a group photo session, capturing the smiles and energy of all participants. For the students, it was more than a dance class. It was a celebration of cultural understanding, friendship, and the shared joy of learning. As one student remarked, “It felt like we were in Spain for a moment, learning not just the language, but the soul behind it”.
Through initiatives like this, the Department of Asian and European Languages continues to strengthen its role as a bridge between cultures, bringing the world to Universiti Malaya, one rhythm at a time. The Flamenco Workshop highlights Universiti Malaya’s commitment to global engagement through the arts.
Dr. Rozita Che Omar is Head of the Department of Asian and European Languages, Faculty of Languages and Linguistics, Universiti Malaya.