Flamenco dancer Yolanda Arroyo

For the last few years, flamenco, the hotblooded art form that originated with Spanish Gypsies, has gained a following in the City of Angels. Barcelona-born Yolanda Arroyo, who began dancing at 9 and has lived in L.A. since 1982, is one of the more prominent purveyors of traditional “flamenco puro” in town. Tossing her jet-black hair as she stamps her size 7 feet, the 41-year-old Arroyo has been a presence in the weekly series “Forever Flamenco” at the Fountain Theatre -- not just as a dancer, but as an artistic director too.

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What are some common myths surrounding flamenco?

We don’t put roses between our teeth -- just in cartoons or funny movies. People confuse the word “flamenco” with “flamingo.” Others think it’s all about making noise.

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What kind of shoes do you wear? And costumes?

I receive shoes by mail from a man in Madrid. I have about 15 different styles -- some are suede, some leather, some lace and some have straps, all in many colors. If the shoe is heavy, it’s not good. It also has to have a very stable heel for balance. Shoes can last five years and can cost a few hundred dollars each.

I have many shawls and maybe 100 dresses, all kinds. I like polka dots. Sometimes, though, I wear a man’s suit.

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What about injuries -- all that stamping must be bad for the knees and ankles.

I broke my toe once, and I have sciatica. The doctor says I have to stop dancing, but I say, “No!”

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Can anyone dance flamenco or must they have duende (soul)?

If they really like flamenco, everybody can learn technique, but duende is something special. It’s an art nobody can teach you. You have to be born with it.

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How do you account for flamenco’s current popularity?

When Franco was in power, it was for people of low class. It was forbidden. After he died [in 1975], everything came out. Flamenco is all over the world now, and people understand it’s really an art.

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-- Victoria Looseleaf

“Forever Flamenco,” Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Blvd., Hollywood. 8 p.m. Sundays.

(323) 663-1525