Manuel Santiago “Manolete”, was born in Granada in the mythical Sacromonte neighborhood as part of one of the most important gypsy flamenco dynasties: Los Mayas. He started dancing at the early age of seven and at fifteen he moved to Madrid at the time of the Madrid tablaos. In the decade of the 70s he consolidated as a dancer and toured with the figures of that time such as Manuela Vargas and La Chunga in countries of North and South America and throughout Europe. Among his most memorable performances we can highlight:
In 1980-81 he belongs to the National Ballet of Spain under the direction of Antonio Gades as a soloist and specialist in flamenco.
In 1982 he made one of the flamenco tours that had the most impact in Japan with his own company. In 1987 he premiered in the Spanish National Ballet under the direction of José Antonio the role of Mercucho.
In 1992 he performed at the Baths of Caracalla commissioned by the Rome Opera.
In 1996 he premiered El amor brujo by Manuel de Falla at the Grec Theater in Barcelona, the Maestranza Theater in Seville and the Granada International Music and Dance Festival. Among his choreographic creations we can highlight:
In 1997 he premiered one of the jewels of flamenco dance Flamenco I am presented, among others, at the Albéniz Theater in Madrid, the Lope de Vega Theater in Seville and the Cultural Center of Villa de Madrid.
In 1998 he presented Latido Flamenco in the Andalusian Ballet directed by José Antonio. In 1999 he created together with Eduardo Serrano “El Guito” the work Puro Jondo.
And in 2002 he directed another masterpiece Entreverao at the Teatro de la Zarzuela in Madrid for the National Ballet. Among the numerous awards obtained, it is worth highlighting: The recognition in 1999 for the best flamenco show Flamenco was awarded by the magazine La caña by both the public and the critics.
In 2001 he received the National Dance Award and the Tío Luis de la Juliana Award from the Colegio Mayor de Isabel de España for: recognition of his brilliant artistic career.
In 2004-2005 he was awarded the APDE Award from the Dance and Flamenco Teachers Association for: the purity of his dance. In 2007, the Gold Medal of the City of Granada.
In 2010 he received the Peña La Platería de Granada Insignia de Oro Award for: “the recognition of his extraordinary contribution to flamenco art and renewed testimony of admiration” Today he is considered an undisputed master of flamenco of all times.