About me

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Hi.

My name is Richard Stephens. I was born in the USA , 1939.

I studied fine arts in Southern Illinois University and later at Millikin University in my home town of Decatur, Illinois.

I also studied classical ballet at the American Ballet School in NYC.

In the US, I worked as a dancer and choreographer.

For details on my life as a dancer/choreographer click here.

In 1964, I came to Madrid planning to live my “European experience” in Spain for a year. I liked it so much that almost 50 years later I am still here and now holding a Spanish passport! 

After working as a choreographer for many years, in 1982 I switched careers and opened La Gamella Restaurant as the chef/owner.

Details on my life in food click here.

At age 65 in 2004, I retired after selling the restaurant and moved to the small mountain village of Majaelrayo some 90 minutes to the north of Madrid.

This website is to share with you a part of my life and my enthusiasm for this wonderful corner of Spain.

        © Richard Stephens Ely 2019