Carmen Amaya

Carmen Amaya
Born
Carmen Amaya Amaya

2 November 1918
Somorrostro, Barcelona, Spain
Died19 November 1963 (aged 45)
Begur, Spain
Other namesLa Capitana
Occupations
  • Flamenco dancer
  • singer
  • actress
Years active1924-1963
Notable work
Height4'11
SpouseJuan Antonio Agüero González (married 1952-)
RelativesLa Chunga (cousin) Remedios Amaya (cousin)
Awards

Carmen Amaya Amaya (2 November 1918 – 19 November 1963), nicknamed La Capitana (English: The Captain) was a Spanish Romani flamenco dancer and singer, born in the Somorrostro district of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.

She is often hailed as "the greatest Flamenco dancer ever" and "the most extraordinary personality of all time in flamenco dance." She was the first female flamenco dancer to master footwork previously reserved for the best male dancers, due to its speed and intensity. She sometimes danced in high-waisted trousers as a symbol of her strong character.