palomitas de maiz

Palomitas de Maiz is the creative experiment of Susana Guardado and Patricio Espinoza, both originally from El Salvador. Together, Patricio and Susana have over 10 years experience in Middle Eastern music and dance. Palomitas de Maiz was launched in 2006, bringing together Patricio’s knowledge and passion for the Egyptian tabla and Susana’s experience with and admiration of Middle Eastern dance.

Their love for this music, combined with their Latin American background, has led them to explore the Arab influence evident in the origins of Latin American music. Palomitas de Maiz is a breathtaking fusion that transcends what North American audiences are accustomed to when they think of Middle Eastern music and dance. Their performance has been described as a flirtatious conversation between the drum and the body; a celebration of music and movement with a theatrical flair spiced with the undeniable chemistry between Patricio and Susana. Egyptian tablas, Spanish acoustic guitar, finger zills, and Egyptian tambourine (Rik) all bring their particular essence to the show.

The original musical composition and choreography is an intense, elegant and playful journey that creates a gamut of emotions in the people that have the opportunity to see the show.

The music incorporates Egyptian, Greek, Turkish, Spanish and Macedonian rhythms with a dash of Central American flavour – a true Gypsy adventure.

PAST PERFORMANCES
Palomitas de Maiz’s uniqueness has led them to be invited to a variety of stages where Middle Eastern percussion and dance are not part of the regular menu. These include:

Art Exhibit opening by renowned Mexican artist, Luis Merino
Victoria Latin Fest (Market Square)
Victoria Body Celeb (2006, 2007)
International Dance Day Celebration (Metro Theatre)
Opening act for folk singer Jeremy Walsh (Fernwood Inn)
5 de Mayo Celebration at Hernandez’ restaurant
Special guests of Paul Haggis – Primitive Sax (Logan’s Pub)
Special guests of Gary Cohen and Kous Kous (Centennial Square)