YASMIN LEVY
Cyd-Gynhyrchiad Theatr Mwldan | Coda Co-Production
Tour Dates: 24 Mar – 1 April 2007
Within the past three years, Yasmin Levy has emerged from being an unknown artist to becoming the hot name on the lips of everyone who’s been lucky enough to experience her extraordinary voice and music. Following a nomination for a BBC Award for World Music, two stunning albums and acclaimed performances worldwide, it’s time for Wales to discover this wonderful artist.
Once heard, Yasmin Levy’s voice - haunting, strident and swooping - is never forgotten. Yasmin revives the most beautiful Ladino songs, from the Judeo-Spanish style which reaches back to 15th century Spain. Yasmin’s delicate weave of Arabic, Jewish and Christian influences seems to celebrate that golden age when the cultural arteries of the region were open and vibrant, and music flowed alongside science, religion and ideas like the tides and currents of the sea itself. Nowhere was the charm of that era felt more keenly than in the southern Spain of medieval times. It was there that the roots of Jewish Sephardic culture and the Ladino language were established.
Born in Jerusalem 31 years ago to a father who was the world’s leading figure in the research and preservation of this unique culture, Yasmin reinvigorates this almost-extinct, moving and romantic tradition. Crucially, she updates these beautiful centuries-old songs, often mixing them with the sultry heat of Andalusian Flamenco. What she does with them is electrifying. Her natural timbre is a high, delicate vibrato, with a thrilling edge, drenched in passion and more than a hint of danger.
Yasmin’s debut album “Romance & Yasmin” created a stir amongst music lovers across the globe. Her second critically acclaimed album “La Juderia” featured Ladino and Flamenco music in her unique emotive style. She has appeared at WOMAD Festivals worldwide, made an explosive debut with Jools Holland on BBC TV, and headlined New York’s Carnegie Hall.
Yasmin appears with a superb 5-piece band, featuring guitar, duduk and percussion. Don’t miss a fabulous opportunity to experience this stunning world-class artist here in Wales!
Press Quote:
What an amazing voice!" - Lucy Duran, BBC Radio 3 "Something really special. She is extraordinary!" - Andy McGregor, BBC Radio 4
www.yasminlevy.net
Tour Venues:
Royal International Pavilion, LLANGOLLEN
Wyeside Arts Centre, BUILTH WELLS
ABERYSTWYTH Arts Centre
Muni Arts Centre, PONTYPRIDD
Theatr Mwldan, CARDIGAN
Queen’s Hall, NARBERTH
PONTARDAWE Arts Centre
Theatr Ardudwy, HARLECH