The traditional Spanish dance form that originated from the Gypsy culture of the region is rooted in the classical guitar rhythms and singing that was used as the forum for self-expression.

Because of its modest origins, Flamenco has often been labeled more raw or edgy than other traditional dance forms.

But today, the dance that melds guitar, hand clapping and foot tapping, is attracting more people across cultures.

"I returned to the States in 1994," says José de Guadalupe, who teaches two Flamenco classes and is planning on adding a third. "From then until now, it's become very popular. It's become very mainstream over the past five years."

The Arizona native grew up dancing traditional Mexican folklore dances and fell into Flamenco while stationed in Spain with the military.

He had been watching women in the local nightclubs perform the vibrant movements for a while when he finally asked a bartender what they were doing.

When his girlfriend asked him to join her for lessons, he was game to try.

"It's just very passionate" de Guadalupe says of his initial attraction to Flamenco.

"When I started learning, it was more of a self-expression thing."

He has been doing it for 15 years now.

Because Flamenco engages all parts of the body, de Guadalupe says it's also great exercise.

But he emphasizes that it is a dance for anyone with enough patience to learn. His students range in age from 20s to 50s.

"The age group doesn't matter," he says. "Size or shape, it doesn't matter. In Spain, everyone dances. Even the grandparents at parties get up and are moving."

Plus, de Guadalupe adds, Flamenco is like fine wine or cheese - it perfects with age.

"The older you get, the better connected you are," he says. "The songs are about love, about death - basically the whole range of emotions. And as you get older you understand those emotions much more."

[ how to dress ]

Flamenco style, like the dance itself, is ever evolving, but there are a few general rules. Flamenco attire tends to be colorful.

For women: flouncy skirts and a fitted top with ornamental accessories like flowers in the hair, combs, fringed shawls or earrings.

As for shoes, professional flamenco dancers tend to wear shoes with 2.36- inch heels that will make the desired clicking sound while dancing.

For men: They tend to wear boots with hard soles, trousers and a dark shirt.

Castanets are also often worn on the hands to reinforce rhythm.

Source: www.esflamenco.com