Eva was born into one of America's “Flamenco families.” Eva's mother, an acclaimed dancer, taught from a one-room studio in Albuquerque in the 1950s. Eva and her siblings were surrounded by music and dance early on, so when she began teaching Flamenco lessons in her mother’s studio at the age of 14, it was already in her blood and her soul. By 1973, she had established her own dance company, Ritmo Flamenco (Flamenco Rhythm), touring regionally for 15 years. In 1976, Enciñias began teaching a Flamenco class at the University of New Mexico, where she was studying dance. At the time, students weren't allowed to teach and pursue a degree in the same subject, so she chose to teach. That decision shaped her life's work, began a career that endured for four decades at the university, and revolutionized the relationship between Albuquerque and Flamenco. Her passion was contagious, and led to the development of degrees with concentrations in Flamenco within the dance program at UNM. The UNM Department of Theatre and Dance is home to the only accredited dance program in the U.S. with a Flamenco concentration! Her classroom became a place where Flamenco was treated as a serious, rigorous art form worthy of academic study and lifelong devotion.When Eva began teaching Flamenco in Albuquerque in the 1970s, there was no roadmap. Flamenco was not widely taught in American universities. There were no major festivals in the U.S. No widespread support systems. 

So she built them.

But the classroom wasn’t enough.

In 1982, she founded the National Institute of Flamenco, a 501c3 non profit, planting the seeds for something much larger. An internationally significant organization that would support professional artists, train students of all ages, welcome international masters, and celebrate Flamenco as a living, breathing practice. Through partnership with UNM, the Institute has served the local community, and beyond, for four decades. The Conservatory of Flamenco Arts is the school of the NIF, offering classes for all levels, ages, and abilities. This school serves as a vital home for artistry, discipline, legacy and education for Albuquerque and beyond.

A few years later, Eva helped launch what would become Festival Flamenco Albuquerque, now one of the most respected Flamenco festivals outside of Spain. Each summer, the city fills with dancers, musicians, and aficionados from around the world; all drawn to the high desert for an art form that is right at home here.

 

This year Festival Flamenco Albuquerque celebrates its 39th year. From June 19-27, 2026 Albuquerque will become a showcase of the art of Flamenco as they honor the enduring legacy of the festival. 

Feeling inspired? You're in luck. You can attend Flamenco Dinner and Matinee Shows every weekend at Tablao Flamenco Albuquerque, located in Old Town at Hotel Albuquerque. Perfect for date night, or to share the next time you have friends or family visiting from out of town. 

February Highlight!