The Feria de Abril in Philadelphia in 2004 was something the likes of which Philadelphians had never before experienced.
As if the casetas, vendors, fashion show and incredible food weren't enough, Flamenco del Encuentro topped the evening off with a surreal performance.

Internationally known guest performer Edwin Aparacio offered up the most impressive performance at the feria. Apart from having an amazing escobillo (footwork section), his performance was both intense and graceful. Edwin had the most beautiful arms and hands I have ever seen on a man. He actually moved people to tears during his performance and he got the sole standing ovation of the night.
Real, raw flamenco. Edwin Aparicio smoked.

Mariah del Chico , Edwin Aparicio & Liliana Ruiz

It's amazing how unlike some other genres of dance such as ballet and tap, flamenco really allows a person's personality to come through, even while adhering to the traditions of flamenco (I am tempted, but will refrain from resorting to using the term "rules of flamenco" because they aren't any rules, per-say.) A flamenco's style is conveyed by the attitude with which a dancer executes a combination and other subtle but powerful ways that are difficult verbally discribe. Watching Mariah (in the blue) and Liliana (in the red) dance really illustrated this point for me. They are both accomplished bailoras, but very different stylistically.

Mariah has incredibly long, graceful arms. Fluid is the word that best describes her style. She flows from one movement to the next in sweeping crescendos and decrescendos. Her brazos (arms) are flawless. Mariah's style is the embodiment of the feminine flamenca.

Liliana is powerful. Her style is strong, seductive and in-your-face. Liliana's movements are precise. She mesmerizes with her every move. Liliana's performance climaxes with her outstanding escobillo.