Evelyn Nacif

Evelyn Nacif was born in Hollywood, California, a land of artistic dreams. Her ethnic background as well as her early exposure to music and dance would later evolve into a fierce love for flamenco. Her parents were both born in Buenos Aires, Argentina where flamenco aficionados abound. Evelyn's grandfather was a touring Spanish classical guitarist and her aunt a professional Spanish classical dancer. Evelyn's knowledge of the Spanish language enhances the significance of the flamenco letra (lyrics) in the structure of flamenco dance.

With a bachelor’s degree of arts in psychology, Evelyn considered a career as a dance therapist in an attempt to marry her love of dance with healing others. However what she would come to realize is that a profession in dance was her true dream. For the next few years, Evelyn studied flamenco with Lilia Llorens at Orange Coast College and La Sarita in Long Beach. Sarita made a move to Spain and invited Evelyn to visit her in Andalusia, the birthplace of flamenco. Evelyn accepted and studied there with Adela Campallo and Javier Cruz in her month long stay. Upon her return, Evelyn resumed teaching and performing. Although Evelyn's career within Southern California was growing, Evelyn made the decision to relocate to Albuquerque, New Mexico where she could intensify her training in the art of flamenco.

Evelyn studied with the well known Encinias Family at the National Institute of Flamenco and the University of New Mexico where a degree in flamenco dance is offered. She also performed with dance companies Alma Flamenca and Yjastros. Her performances included International Flamenco Festivals 2003 and 2004. Evelyn also participated in Maria Benitez's Flamenco Festival in Santa Fe. During her residence in New Mexico, Evelyn studied with many flamenco masters such as Pastora Galvan, daughter of legendary

Jose Galvan, Maria Pages (Riverdance), and Omayra Amaya, great niece of Carmen Amaya. Evelyn also taught classes at the National Institute of Flamenco’s conservatory.

After four years of intense training, Evelyn returned to California to concentrate on her performance career. Her performance credits include Cafe Sevilla, Alegrias, Tapas Restaurant, Ole Bar, the Fountain Theatre, Molaa Museum, |Skirball Center, Bowers Museum, as well as special events like Make a Wish Foundation Benefit held at San Juan Capistrano Mission. Evelyn has performed with well known dancer Juan Talavera and has been accompanied by Spanish singer Antonio de Jerez and gyspy singer Jesus Montoya. She danced with choreographer and artist Yaelisa in the video of Iron and Wine’s “Boy with a Coin”. She also taught as the flamenco instructor where it all began for her - Orange Coast College. Evelyn has recently returned from living in Spain for a year, a dream since her first stay in Sevilla. Although away from her favorite city, Evelyn looks for inspiration from local artist Briseyda Zarate as well as visiting artists such as the Farrucos and Nino de los Reyes.