RIO Flamenco returns to the Elks Opera House Friday, August 17 for another riveting evening of flamenco and Latin music and dancing. RIO Flamenco, Prescott's native flamenco group, has been performing in the area for the past five years and has developed quite a following along with the national trend of increasing interest in and popularity of flamenco.

RIO's performances are musically rich and visually satisfying. They draw upon a variety of cultural influences which continually surprise and delight your senses. Although some pieces are deep and emotional, the show moves at a fast pace and leaves you wishing it could go on and on. "Our last show at the Elks in April was definitely the best yet" says Tony Cocilovo, RIO's guitarist. "We received a lot of feedback from people that they were amazed to find this level of talent from a local crew. In fact, one elderly woman who used to dance flamenco herself said it was the best flamenco show she had ever seen. Again, we are fortunate to have such a cadre of experienced musicians and performers. And we all love the overwhelming appreciation and support that we receive from our friends and fans. But that comes with the territory. Flamenco is all about passion, and you just can't be a flamenco fan without having plenty of passion yourself."

RIO promises the same quality show at its upcoming performance—traditional flamenco blended with hot Latin rhythms, always moving and changing. "When we design a show, we always keep the audience in mind, weaving the deep with the light hearted and spicy pieces. We are creating an energy and excitement as the night goes on. People never know what is coming next, and we throw in a few surprises here and there," Anna Cocilovo, RIO dancer.

Flamenco originates from the Gypsies of Spain, evolving from centuries of migration and persecution by the dominant societies. It expresses the entire range of human emotions from joy to despair. Each palo, or form, is representative of a different human experience. As Leova Mejia, RIO dancer says, " Flamenco is life, isn't it?"

If your are new to RIO Flamenco, they are a group of exceptional musicians which include violin, guitars, percussion, upright bass and flamenco dancers. Guest artists also appear to keep each show fresh and exciting.

The Elks Opera House presents RIO Flamenco Friday, August 17 at 7:30 p.m. A wine bar is available before the show and at intermission. Tickets are available online at www.ElksOperaHouse.com , at the Elks Theater lobby from 10 am. till 1 pm. Tuesday through Friday, and at the Goodwin Street Pharmacy, 406 W Goodwin St, (928) 445-3550. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the show. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $15 adults, $8 children 12 and under. For more information, call RIO at (928)-445-1643.