Flamenco castanets workshop

This workshop is designed for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance. It offers a rich blend of history, practical technique, musicality, and coordination, focusing on how castanets integrate with Spanish dance movement.  Students will reinforce strong technical foundations, learn new rhythms, and explore fresh Spanish dance choreography. The course emphasizes musical expression and coord...

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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.

  • Start Date: 26 Jul 2026
    End Date: 26 Jul 2026
    Sun (Daytime): 10:30 - 13:30
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 1 session
    Course Code: DS140
    Tutors:  Danielle Allan
    Full fee £49.00 Senior fee £49.00 Concession £34.00
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Any questions? drama@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 4582 0413

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Book your place
In stock
SKU
236175
Full fee £49.00 Senior fee £49.00 Concession £34.00

What is the course about?

This is an up-beat, practical castanets class in which you will develop your technique and play a variety of rhythms combined with Spanish dance moves. You will master postural presence, sense of rhythm and coordination. The workshop will develop a short dance sequence.  All students who wish to are invited to present this 'work in progress' as part of our Summer Fiesta held in the John Lyon's Theatre.

What will we cover?

Physical warm-up / cool-down
Brief history of castanets
A selection of finger coordinations
The origins of Flamenco, its history and multi-cultural roots
Co-ordination of Spanish dance moves combined with castanets
Complete a short dance sequence

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

  • Demonstrate a variety of finger coordinations.
  • Embody Spanish dance posture and style.
  • Follow combinations of flamenco dance moves with castanets.
  • Follow and perform a short dance sequence.
  • (Optional) Present this ‘work in progress’ as part of the Summer Fiesta 
     

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable for students with some previous experience of playing castanets and Spanish dance, and suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.


In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:
• Follow spoken instructions
• Use numbers to recognise rhythms within dance.
• Work within groups and pairs safely.


Please Note: We do not usually accept under 19 year olds except in special circumstances - please see Students under 19 for more information.
 

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

This is a practical and dynamic class; you will be taught through demonstration, correction, copying, Q&A, repetition and revision. We will work as a whole group in small groups and in pairs. To consolidate learning you will be encouraged to make notes and / or record tutor demonstration to support optional home practise. You will receive hand-outs and some written material. 


HEALTH CHECK: You may or may not be asked to participate in rigorous activity from time to time. Please consider whether you could do this, if you are in any doubt consult a medical practitioner.
 

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No additional costs however we recommend you bring a folder, notebook, pen and bottled water.

Bring your own castanets if you have a pair. Quality castanets will be provided on loan.

Women / Feminine style: character shoes, Flamenco dance shoes or strong court shoes or boots with a strong but small heel - No stilettos, sandals, platforms or trainers.  Leotards / T-shirts recommended - No baggy sweatshirts etc.  Comfortable trousers / leggings, Flamenco / flared skirts optional.

Men / Masculine style: Flamenco boots or boots with a Cuban heel or leather-soled shoes with slight heel.  Comfortable trousers and (optional) a waistcoat..
 

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Flamenco: beginners and improvers or Flamenco: improver and intermediate. 

Danielle Allan Tutor Website

VOICE & SPEECH: Having trained at LAMDA (1981-1984) and having worked in all media (radio, TV, theatre, film) for over 40 years, Danielle has taught the Voice module of ‘CL Foundation Acting’ course since 1995. She continues this with as much enthusiasm as ever, and also teaches First Folio Shakespeare, Technical Voice, Communication Skills, English Pronunciation and Vocal Anatomy. FLAMENCO: Danielle trained in Classical Ballet, Tap and Jive, and was drawn to flamenco with all itsexpressive power. She has taught Flamenco at CL since 1999, and her company Flamenco Con Gusto offers both novice and experienced dancers the chance to perform alongside her in public while supported by seasoned professional flamenco guitarists and singers. DIRECTING: Danielle has written, directed and choreographed ‘Flamenco Musical Dramas’: integrating actors’ performances with Flamenco dance, music & song. Such productions include • LA MANADA (WAF May 2019) City Lit Theatre Company’s adaptations of Lorca’s plays: • SPIRITS WITHIN (aka The House of Bernarda Alba', July 2013 and July 2023) • YERMA FLAMENCA (Spring 2020) and a project combining Shakespeare and Flamenco ROMERA Y JULIETA (June 24)

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.