First male Spirit of Fiesta ready for Old Spanish Days

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.-Behind the doors of the Maria Bermudez Flamenco Performing Arts Studio Jack Hardwood practices for this year's Fiesta Pequena.

“I am spending 5 or 6 hours a day in the studio,“ said Harwood.

Harwood's been dancing since he turned 3, but growing up with a passion for dance had its challenges. 

“I experienced bullying and teasing when I was younger and just a lot of stereotypes. " said Harwood," I was never comfortable with sharing that I was a dancer. "

In April, on his third try, a panel of anonymous judges selected Harwood to the 2023 Old Spanish Days' Spirit of Fiesta.

In 1998 Ryan Zermono became the first Junior Spirit, but Harwood, 18, is the first male to take the Spirit title in Old Spanish Days 99 year history.

Harwood will perform solos, group dances and duets reminiscent of fiesta posters dating back decades.

The Santa Barbara City College student's father is a former police officer. His mom is the Marketing Director at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum that has a fiesta photography exhibit on display.

His little brother Riley is following in his dancing shoes.

Harwood will dance on the Old Mission Santa Barbara steps backed by live musicians, rather than recordings.

That is something he advocated for after studying with professionals in Spain.

“The connection between the dancer and musicians and artists behind you it what take the artists to the next level.”

His dance teachers knows Harwood's selection as Old Spanish Days' Spirit of Fiesta has ruffled some flamenco feathers.

“We did get some controversy some people felt is should be a female, a female spirit," said Maria Bermudez.

Most people think of the Spirit as a young women in a white dress.

"I never even thought that a guy would be able to do it," said Harwood.

That is why he hopes to inspire others in classes he teaches.

“There are a couple boys this year," said Harwood, "They seem more comfortable with their dance."

Harwood said he will be dancing long after fiesta.

He plans on becoming a professional flamenco dancer.

For a schedule of fiesta events where you are likely to see Jack Harwood dance visit sbfiesta.org