The plot is based on the opera "Carmen" by Georges Bizet.  In the film, Antonio Gades plays himself, sort of:  a famous choreographer.  He's putting on a flamenco ballet version of "Carmen" and he falls in love with the woman he casts as Carmen (Laura Del Sol).  She's not a great dancer, but she has the fire and passion he's looking for, which if you're familiar with the opera, is bad news!  I won't give away the ending.  But do see it if you get the chance.  The story isn't really that special, but the dancing sequences, which make up at least half of the film, are FANTASTIC!!