El amor brujo facts for kids
El amor brujo (which means "Love, the Magician") is a special kind of show called a ballet. It has music by a famous Spanish composer named Manuel de Falla. The dance moves were created by Pastora Imperio, and the story was written by Gregorio Martínez Sierra. The very first performance happened in Madrid, Spain, on April 15, 1915.
Manuel de Falla wrote this ballet after Pastora Imperio, a well-known dancer, told him she wanted new music and dances for her shows.
What's the Story?
The story of El amor brujo is based on an old folk tale. It's about a young gypsy woman named Candela. She is very sad because the man she loves has left her.
Candela decides to visit a witch to ask for help. She hopes the witch can make a special love potion to bring her man back. When Candela gets to the witch's home, it's empty. So, Candela tries to do the magic spell herself!
Suddenly, the man who left her appears. He doesn't recognize Candela and thinks she is the witch, which makes him scared. Candela tells him that a spell has been cast. She explains that the spell can only be broken if he returns to her. Because he is afraid of the "witch," he agrees to come back. Then, he realizes it's Candela! By this point, the magic has worked, and he wants to be with her again.
About the Music
Manuel de Falla was very good at using old Spanish music styles in his work. El amor brujo is one of his most beautiful pieces. It has many rich melodies and exciting changes in speed.
Even though the story is short, the music, dances, and setting make you feel like you are truly in a gypsy world. Many parts of this ballet became very popular with piano players. One of the most famous pieces is called "The Ritual Fire Dance." It was a favorite of the composer himself!
See also
