Spanish National Ballet Returns to Auditorio de Tenerife with 'Afanador'

The Auditorio de Tenerife kicks off its new season this September with a major event for the island’s performing arts scene: the return of the Spanish National Ballet (BNE) after a 16-year absence. The company will perform its acclaimed production, Afanador, on September 5 and 6 in the Symphony Hall. According to the venue, hosting this complex show highlights the auditorium’s technical ability to stage large-scale, intricate choreography.

Afanador has earned significant praise over the last two years, winning honors at the Max, Talía, and Godot Awards, as well as recognition from Catalan critics. Directed by Marcos Morau, the piece brings the aesthetic of Colombian photographer Ruven Afanador to life through dance, offering a surrealist take on flamenco performed by a cast of 39 dancers. To make the show accessible, tickets are priced at 15 euros, with a reduced rate of 5 euros for those under 30, along with further discounts for the unemployed and large families.

The BNE’s visit is part of a strategy led by artistic director Rubén Olmo to balance traditional Spanish dance—including escuela bolera, folklore, and flamenco—with contemporary, avant-garde styles. This approach aligns with the goals of the National Institute of Performing Arts and Music (INAEM), which has overseen the company since 1978. The collaboration also highlights a growing trend among public institutions to share large-scale productions to ensure they remain economically sustainable.

For the Auditorio de Tenerife, this performance reinforces its long-standing commitment to dance as a core part of its programming. The show takes place at 7:30 p.m. on September 5 and 6:00 p.m. on September 6. Tickets are available through the auditorium’s website, by phone, or at the box office, which is open Monday through Saturday.