I hate to inject a discordant note, but as a former professional flamenco performer, I would say that Casa Patas in Madrid MIGHT have the real thing, on a rare, good night. Usually it has a tourist- level show. For the only truly authentic flamenco performed by <<real afecciónados del flamenco>> go to what used to be <<La Solea>> now --- errg, help me out MadridMan, what is its new name? Well, I will research it. I posted the information in another thread some time ago. Try to go on a Thursday night, and get there before 11 or you won't be able to get in. By the way no less an expert than the late, great, Juan Alvarez, the luthier, gave me this advice! Also if you see anyplace with Curro de Jerez playing, you might want to check it out. Sometimes he plays for tourist shows, but he always warns me to stay away. Just a warning!