Malevo

Direct from Argentina, the show Malevo takes the stage at The Madison Center for the Arts on Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. for its first-ever Arizona performance.

Backed by a live band, this all-male group elevates Malambo traditions with urban percussion and dance. A test of strength, dexterity and agility, the performance includes elements of flamenco, tango and Irish stepdance that meet with a result that not only pushes the Malambo style beyond its limits but gives audiences an extraordinary visual and sensory theatrical experience unlike any other.

After being named an official cultural ambassador to the National Identity of Argentina and achieving numerous successes including performances in Las Vegas, New York, Paris, and London, Malevo has appeared with Latin pop star Ricky Martin, Cirque du Soleil, and on the hit television show America’s Got Talent.

Malevo was created by director, choreographer, and dancer Matías Jaime. The Malevo company has re-envisioned the Argentine dance of Malambo — taking what are traditional Argentinian folkloric dance duels performed by Gauchos of the Pampas region and transforming in a modern and visionary way.

While maintaining the great virility and dexterity of Malambo, the company has elevated this traditional dance by fusing its classic technique with other styles such as flamenco and incorporating live percussion onstage. Set to a pulsating rhythm of drums, the choreography combines the use of boleadoras, a leather and stone hunting tool used by Gauchos, with fast leg movements, energetic zapateados (stomping), and quick cepillados (brushing/scrubbing).

Tickets are $45 per person.

For more information, visit themadison.org.