Cynthia Stamps (La Araña) ~ Artistic Director
Peter Cary (El Pimentón) ~ Musical Director

We are a group of dancers and musicians dedicated to sharing our love of flamenco. After witnessing a brilliant live performance in San Francisco’s Sol y Luna Cafe, we were inspired to form the Flamenco Troupe Quema Fuego. Quema Fuego began with educational presentations through the Artists-in Schools program which led to appearances at festivals, corporate events and private parties. A common factor in all these events was the question, “Where can I learn flamenco?” Flamenco del Corazón was created to answer this question. In addition to teaching flamenco, we continue to perform in a variety of settings with our student company. In June, everyone is given the opportunity to participate in the annual show.

La Araña

“Many dance styles touch my heart; flamenco is the first and only to reach my soul.”

La Araña brings her Andalusian heritage to life through flamenco song and dance. She discovered her innate connection to flamenco while studying with La Pata Fría, and furthered her education in the workshop environment with Kristina de Sacramento, Cihtli Ocampo, Ethan Margolis and Vida Peral.

Her commitment to and enthusiasm for flamenco underlie her desire to share it with others. As a teacher, her respect for tradition and technique are challenging, however she is dedicated to guiding and encouraging each student to develop their own flamenco style.

Araña sees dance as an expression of the heart and affirmation of the human spirit. Whether she is dancing to entertain or instruct, audiences and students connect with her irresistible joy and unique combination of fire and grace.

El Pimentón

"Music is a central joy in my life. Flamenco combines raw passion with a demanding technique that will thrill and challenge me for the rest of my days."

The guitar playing and singing of El Pimentón reflect a lifetime of involvement and dedication to music and the arts. A professional musician for 32 years, Pimentón is a "guitarist's guitarist" who has done it all. He comes from a musical family and was formally trained in theory and composition at OSU School of Music.

Pimentón accompanies most Flamenco del Corazón classes and has served as accompanist for David Nixon, Mariano Parra, Natalie Marrone, Jessica Wilt and Kristina de Sacramento.