Castanets calling

The pair, who have made more than 100 television, radio and film appearances in this country, are already booked to play a large number of schools in Worcestershire and beyond, this year.

It was after an appearance on children's programme Wide Awake Club, on Saturday morning television, that they started receiving enquiries from schools.

The couple then developed performance workshops for various ages and have played for many pupils since.

Delphine made her Spanish stage debut in the Carmen Amaya Company and since then has toured the world as a flamenco dancer.

She dances and sings at the schools they visit, accompanied by Domingo, who plays the traditional-style flamenco guitar.

The duo then talk to the children and tell stories.

The Worcestershire schools the couple have visited include Manor Park School, Northwick Manor, Our Lady Queen of Peace School, and Prince Henry's High School.

"The children learn to dance and we bring them out of themselves," says Domingo.

"We don't tell them what to do, but we show them how to do it.

"We talk to them about English and history, anything that will interest them.

"After we have been there, they do paintings and drawings and write up what they have experienced. The letters that we receive from them and the things that they have noticed are wonderful."

The duo, who live in Worcester, normally entertain the youngsters for 40 minutes.

"We perform for all ages of youngsters as well as university students," says Domingo.

"We have always tried to involve the audience rather than have them sit there and listen."

Domingo was even asked to accompany Joaquin Cortes, but declined the offer because he had promised to do another booking first.

"If there is something already in the book, then that's what we do," he says.

The duo have worked with such luminaries as Bruce Forsyth, Larry Grayson and Basil Brush.

Any schools who would like to book the couple to perform should ring 01905 424083.