7DAYS´ INTERVIEW: Vicente Vinent

SALERO

By Sonia Golt

I have known Vicente Vinent for many years, since I was a young girl, as Vicente worked in the MOD where my father worked so when I visited my dad he was always ready to chat and talk about his dancing, I too was keen on dancing at the time and therefore it was interesting to talk to Vicente well known local dancer. Many moons have passed since then and the artistic flair of VICENTE has proved that he is worth his weight in gold in this field, he is unique and people know him as "Vicente el bailarin". I feel privileged that years after my father passed away Vicente performed and recited one of my father's poems about Gibraltar and got a standing ovation which brought tears to my eyes, as I was present!

Vicente started his career in the arts as stage manager of the group "Los Salineros" and he partnered off with the well known and charismatic Rosita accompanied by Kiki the guitarist in the dancing, together they went around Gibraltar's night spots entertaining both young and old with their flamenco dancing.

Apart from being good at what he does best, which is dancing, Vicente has a natural stage presence and as soon as he walks onto the stage all eyes are on him, even today at the age of 69 Vicente is still a great showman. He could and would have become an international dancer in this field but it was not to be as he dedicated and devoted most of his free time to his mother, who was not well at the time. Nevertheless, he found time to perform for various important personalities like; HRH Princes Aisha of Morocco, sister to King Hassan II, and HRH Prince Andrew. In Spain too he has performed with many well known dancers and singers.

"I have really enjoyed performing with Manolo Escobar, Antonita Macarena, Marife de Triana and other important names in the field of flamenco, this is my way of life and I adore it!"

He has travelled to Costa Rica, Israel, Spain and Morocco, to perform, and he has great recollection of his performance at the Hammersmith Palace in London where the art of Spanish dancing was very well accepted and appreciated and he was highly acclaimed then.

"I have done a lot of charity shows organized by myself or sometimes by participating in charity shows others organised, I am very happy to have been able to do this for the community and for very good causes. I am always ready to give a helping hand especially if it involves dancing!"

Vicente's dance group "Los Salineros" have performed for many tourists both in shows in Gibraltar, in Cruise Liners, local Hotels and even in the Ark Royal and HMS Bulwark. "Los Salineros" received a letter from Saga Holidays in Essex, when they operated in Gibraltar bringing British tourists to the Rock, the letter said: "I felt it right to thank you on behalf of Saga holidays for the wonderful display of flamenco you have given our guests over the years we have been visiting Gibraltar. It is thanks to your professionalism and friendship that our clients (your tourists) enjoyed their stay on the Rock."

Vicente has often gone with his dancers to "El Rocio" as he is a devotee of La Virgen del Rocio, and he has very good memories of these pilgrimages during the years.

"It is tiring but so very enjoyable and inspiring."

Has Gibraltar thanked you enough for what you have done in the field of flamenco?

"Well Her Majesty the Queen gave me a medal in recognition for my work and I was also given a tribute in 1996 at Lathbury Barracks Officer's Mess where many of my fans got together to make me feel special and appreciated for my dancing."

His dance school, which is still growing strong, has many pupils who come to learn Sevillanas, zapateao, bulerias, rumbas and other forms of flamenco, and Vicente together with members of his dance group enjoy teaching what they know to the pupils who wish to know more about flamenco and its origin.

Vicente's dedication to this form of art is still very much part of his life and we will very soon have the opportunity to see him on stage as he is now performing every Saturday evening at 'The Square Café' at Casemates. He is proud of this and comments on what he has in store for the audience, the programme features "Cantantes de la Copla" as well as a guest appearance by the well know Sonia Mena, 'La noche Andaluza' as he calls the event is a must and I advice you to book early on tel: 200 41100 as there is great demand to see this powerful showman on stage, an opportunity not to be missed.

Vicente we love you and wish you all the best for the future.

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