I never used to like this place. It features in all the tourist guides and every time I had been it was always full of chattering, disrespectful, sun-burnt guiris (what the Spanish have fondly labelled foreigners). La Carbonería, former coal yard, is a flamenco venue which showcases artists that are new to the scene. It has white-washed rugged walls, boasting flamenco-related art work.
I have, however, grown to like it: I do tend to try and steer myself away from the larger room, especially in peak season, where the long benches get filled up early for the more tourist-friendly flamenco show (i.e. it's complete with dancer). I prefer the smaller room in the entrance, where I have witnessed spontaneous displays of local talent, young and old passing on the baton to sing, play the piano, or make a space to dance. One of my favourite encounters was listening to a young guitarist and older gypsy gentleman jamming away in a little hidden-away corner.
A perfect venue for someone wanting to try flamenco for the first time. It's open every day from 10 pm. Entry is free but drinks a little more expensive than most places, although reasonable (€2 for a beer).
In the barrio Santa Cruz. It is a little hard to find but noticeable for its large red doorway.
Calle Levies, 18, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
+34 954 21 44 60
Google map: bit.ly/KEefQ6
* BecomingSevillana is our Been there local for Seville. You can read her profile here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/seville-local-kim.jsp and follow her tips here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/travellers/BecomingSevillana.jsp
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