Gabriela Reyes La Canela Flamenco shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Gabriela Reyes, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
As a Flamenco Dancer and Choreographer, what made me laugh and be happy is sharing my Art with the audience and seeing the progress with my students and musicians. Have a real connection with them.
Through movements and expressions, we all live the same story at the same time. I can see their faces and feel the outer and inner transformation in them, wihich makes me think it’s extremely positive for people in general and for the community where I living “West Palm Beach, Fl”. I notice that the mix between dance and music is healing. Everyone enters into harmony during class or performance. Doing something good for myself and for them makes me proud, since it leaves a positives mark on Society.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m an artist, “Bailaora” Flamenco dancer, teacher and choreorapher. I was born in Venezuela. I have been living in United States around 5 years. My work here has basically been teaching and event production, not only as a soloist but also preparing my dance group.
Looking to expand or internationalize I have known wonderful places like Jerez de la Frontera, Sevilla and Madrid in Spain. Aruba, Guayaquil – Ecuador, right here Miami and Orlando, Forth Worth and Austin in Texas, New York, Albuquerque – New Mexico. Seeking knowledge and absorbing everything possible for my preparation in Workshops and incredible shows that I have seen and participated in.
Personally, I strive for excelllence in all I do, “La Canela Flamenco” means being spicy and warm with my students, clients and guests like cinnamon spice. Ha Ha! As a synonym of passion, inteligence, discipline and commitment.
I’m currently working on preparing to participate in “Fiesta de Pueblo & Businesss Expo 2026′ As a Spain Cultural Ambassador. Taking my student to show flamenco dancing from Alle Dance Conservatory and Florida Atlantic University respectively.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
What work has tought me most is to be constant and perseverant, see the obstacles as opportunities, understand that everything is part of a process in live and that every step counts. I think it is important to enjoy every moment even the simplest ones. Observe the details and take breaks to recharge, admire Nature, even have different hobbies and discovering hiding talents, daring to learn something new. Getting out of the routine helps us all.
Meet new people and Cultures it has taught me other perspectives on life, something that is very easy to do here. I love that!, everywhere you look you find people from all over the world.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Many times, when you emigrate, above all, you encounter many barriers that you most overcome that have to do with ideologies, customs, people that you must leave behind you to adapt to the new, because life itself asks you to move forward. That involves a great deal of grief, and each person’s process is different. It’s like taking a leap into the void, which has a lot of uncertainty and excitement or hope at the same time, after a while you realize that you are no longer the same person you were before, that life has shaped you. You discover that you are more stronger and have many tools to go ahead, This is essential because it allows you to be more discerning when making decisions. In my case, I’m fortunate to be able to continue my flamenco work here, although I’ve also developed other skills.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
I think so, when you are an artist it is easier, your weekness and strengths are equally good, all human being have sadness and joy. The same can be expressed on stage or in daily life. The balance is up to each person to decide with whom, how and when you are going to share. Being honest with yourself and always prioritizing you, remembering that you are the pillar of your life for yourself and for others.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
My parents let me choose what what I wanted to do, But they supported me when they saw my talent, I still grew up in an environment that would fuel what I’m doing now. For example, my mom took me to her dance classes, my dad gave me my music stand so I could place the sheets music on it to play the violin. My aunts all sang beautifully, my godfather loved bullfighting and flamenco and so on. When I grew up everything was getting easier, and I decided to continue with my passion.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @lacanelareyes
- Twitter: @lacanelareyes
- Facebook: Gabriela Reyes (La Canela Flamenco)
- Youtube: Gabriela Reyes @gaby8379
Image Credits
Andrea Cifuentes Photographer “Andeta Photography”
“The Space Connect” West Palm Beach Photo Shoot
Felipe Carvajal (Guitarist)
Flamenco Group:
Maria Fernanda Villareal
Denise Vidal-Bennette
Laura Garcia
Juanita Redondo
Marina Efremova
Mariana Escalona
Susana Botero
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
