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On this preview we visit Viva España
Imagine the scene. Along with your fellow travellers you have boarded the coach in the early evening May sunshine in Torrevieja. The pleasant journey takes us along the coast past Alicante. Against the skyline we can see the outline of of the large well preserved Santa Barbara castle which sits on Mount Benicantil overlooking the port area. Further along we pass by Villajoyosa. A town with a long seafaring tradition, a tradition which still influences the events of the Moors and Christian festivals which are held here every July.
Next door is Villajoyosa’s big brother. The holiday town of Benidorm. Year after year host to many sunseeking holiday makers from all over the world. Shortly after Benidorm There is a noticeable change in scenery. Suddenly as we reach the Costa Azahar (literally “the orange blossom coast”) we can see by the presence of field after field of orange trees why this area is given it’s name. With the journey almost over we can see the 2 steep roofs of Viva España. From the distance it looks deceptively small, but is can easily take in excess of 200 people. The style of the building is reminiscent of 2 “Barajas” sitting side by side and reflects the truly Spanish nature of a visit to this venue.
A Baraja is a style of house with a very steep roof which was developed since the 10th century as a typical dwelling for field workers. These are very much in evidence in the countryside of both Valencia and Murcia regions.
By now the sun is beginning to set. As we approach we can see in the brightly lit yard in front of the restaurant, a number of sturdy well bred, immaculately groomed horses being put through their paces by expert riders in full national costume. Girls in Sevillana costume meet us as we leave the coach and present a flower to the ladies. Some dance with the horses. In the background is the sound of throaty, mournful, Sevillana singing.
Waiters move amongst us offering tapas and glass of sherry. What a wonderful start to this special night. After the horses we enter the restaurant area. Music is provided for those who wish to dance both before and after the show. Once everyone has settled down we enjoy an excellent meal with wine and coffee, and enjoy the special atmosphere created by staff of Viva España. After the meal, the lights go down, and the show begins.
The floor show is set on a large raised platform in the middle of the floor. This is where you suddenly become aware that this is a family run business. “Dad”of the family is a larger than life figure sporting white suit and a grey wide brimmed Sevillana hat. In his hand a large shepherds crook. This he enthusiastically bangs on the floor to get our attention. From that point on, no further effort is required to get our attention as the dancers swirl across the floor in multi coloured traditional Spanish costumes performing dances of the region. Specialist acts such as box drums, and other acts are slid in between dancing routines to allow the girls to change costumes. Leading the dancers is Jacqueline, another member of the family, who also takes part in almost every aspect of the business. The show is lively, slick, fast moving and highly professional. The closeness to the stage gives the audience a feeling of being involved. No objections are raised to taking photographs or videos, and the cast will pose for photographs after the show.
All in all, this highly professional show with a really informal feel, and accompanied by an excellent meal, provides a most satisfying night out. One final mention is to “Mum” of the family who manages to appear fresh and unflustered as she supervises the preparation of over 200 hundred meals.
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