The Fundación Cajasol’s ‘Los Mano a mano’ cycle marks its 75th edition with a compelling pairing of two celebrated artists from Huelva province: matador David de Miranda and flamenco singer Argentina. The event, titled ‘El toro y el cante’ (The Bull and the Song), will take place on at the Teatro Cajasol in Seville, with free admission until capacity is reached.
The ‘Mano a mano’ cycle, a long-standing tradition, aims to explore the connections between the worlds of bullfighting and flamenco – two deeply rooted Spanish art forms that share a common ground in passion, skill, and artistic expression. This year’s installment promises a nuanced conversation, guided by journalist José Enrique Moreno, between de Miranda and Argentina, examining the shared values and emotional resonance of both disciplines.
David de Miranda is currently enjoying a period of significant success in his career. He was a standout performer at last year’s Feria de Abril, earning the honor of exiting through the Puerta del Príncipe on . His consistent performances have solidified his position among the leading figures in contemporary bullfighting. Having become a fully qualified matador in 2016, he achieved a notable triumph by opening the Puerta Grande in Madrid in 2019, a testament to his skill and courage. His journey has been marked by perseverance, overcoming serious injuries and setbacks to establish himself as a prominent force in the arena.
Argentina, whose real name is María López Tristancho, is a highly respected voice in flamenco. Born in Huelva, she initially pursued a career in flamenco dance before discovering her exceptional talent for cante. Her debut solo album in 2006 marked the beginning of a remarkable ascent, earning her national and international recognition. Known for her versatility, Argentina has successfully blended flamenco with other genres, including fado and Cuban son, while remaining true to the core essence of the art form.
The pairing of de Miranda and Argentina is particularly noteworthy given their shared origins in Huelva. The Fundación Cajasol has intentionally curated a program that highlights the artistic contributions of this region, emphasizing the cultural richness and talent that emerges from its communities. Moreno’s role as moderator is expected to facilitate a dynamic exchange, drawing out the parallels between the bravery and artistry of bullfighting and the emotional depth and authenticity of flamenco.
The event isn’t simply a meeting of two artists; it’s a dialogue between two worlds often perceived as distinct, yet bound by a shared commitment to risk, emotion, and a profound connection to Spanish cultural identity. The organizers emphasize that both bullfighting and flamenco demand a high degree of skill, courage, and artistic expression, qualities that both de Miranda and Argentina embody in their respective fields.
For de Miranda, this event arrives at a pivotal moment in his career. His success at the Feria de Abril has propelled him into the spotlight, and he continues to build momentum with each performance. Argentina, meanwhile, continues to push the boundaries of flamenco, exploring new sonic landscapes while honoring the traditions of the genre. Their conversation promises to offer insights into the dedication, discipline, and passion required to excel in these demanding art forms.
The 75th edition of ‘Los Mano a mano’ is presented as an opportunity for the public to engage with these two artists on a deeper level, to understand the nuances of their crafts, and to appreciate the common threads that connect them. The free admission policy underscores the Fundación Cajasol’s commitment to making cultural events accessible to a wider audience, fostering a greater appreciation for the arts within the community. The Teatro Cajasol, located at Chicarreros, 1, will be the setting for this unique encounter, offering a space for reflection and dialogue between the worlds of the bull and the song.
