The lights dim, and a solitary guitar fills the air. One by one, the members of Noche Flamenca take their places on stage. The singers begin their laments; the dancers pound their feet, announcing the start of "Cielo de Tierra" (Heaven on Earth). The show's star is dancer and founder, Soledad Barrio, a native of Madrid who is also married to the group's artistic director, Martin Santangelo. When she dances, the sorrow contained in the songs is palpable, regardless of whether you understand the words. Her arms gracefully wave in every direction. Her body moves as if trying to rid itself of pain. Her face contorts in concentration. Although lively in beat and with screams of "olé,” the accompanying music is mostly sad, and at times, the singers scream into Ms. Barrio's face. "Cielo" is performed in a very intimate setting, and I could not help wonder how this’ll translate to the Central Park SummerStage stage July 7 (at 8 and 10 p.m. for free). Whether you catch the show in the East Village or the park, you won’t regret a moment. 

Through July 30. Theater 80, 80 St. Mark’s Place (betw. 1st & 2nd Aves.), 212-352-3101; $45.