ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – A local organization that hosts a global flamenco performance is struggling to put on its marquee event after the federal government cut tens of thousands of dollars in funding. And those cuts are coming at the absolute worst time.
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Members from the National Institute of Flamenco’s Yjastros, The American Flamenco Repertory Company, and University of New Mexico students studying Flamenco, carefully correct their movements as Ana Morales, a guest artist visiting from Spain, adjusts and clarifies their work.
Morales, who recently received the prestigious National Dance Prize, is one of several featured performers in the upcoming 38th annual Festival Flamenco. But this year’s Festival faces a challenge unlike ever before. “I received an email from the National Endowment for the Arts stating that the grant funding was being withdrawn,” said Marisol Encinias, Executive Director of the National Institute of Flamenco.
The Trump Administration’s budget cuts include a $70,000 grant the institute has received over the past 15 years. “This year, because we were awarded the grant, and we moved forward with that, it was part of our budget. So, this is a big blow,” said Encinias.
The grant for this year was awarded in November 2024. Now, with only 45 days left until the nine-day festival, the institute is meant to be working on its finishing touches. “At this time, it’s unfortunate to have our focus pulled from what we really need to be doing, but I just would like to tell everybody that the festival is moving forward,” said Encinias.
Travel costs have been paid for artists coming from around the world. Visas have been approved, all since October of 2024. Cancelling the event, Encinias says, is not an option. “It’s an event that serves people from around the world, and it really does support the work that we do in this community year-round,” said Encinias.
The community is rallying behind the group during what the institute calls a time of uncertainty. “Though we are a little nervous, we’re pushing forward in faith,” said Encinias.
The National Institute of Flamenco has seven days to appeal the decision. They plan to make their appeal on Thursday.
