Latin America Active Adventures: Tango Tells A Story

By Ronald Stewart


The Argentine Tango is a dramatic, sensual style of dance that portrays a sense of intimacy between the partners. Argentine Tango originated as far back as the 1800 s. Difficult times experienced during that period initiated a sense of longing and need into the dance. Primarily performed by African and European migrants in Buenos Aires. This discipline now can be experienced as part of the many Latin America Active Adventures.

The original Tango was danced to music that has a romantic undertone and is filled with the sounds of melodies. Modern-day Tango music is somewhat different in sound. The Argentine Tango was customarily danced to music that was created with the Bandoneon, a German instrument that resembles an accordion. While the modern day is classed as a ballroom dance, the original Tango was not deemed so.

The Tango was never intended as a competitive dance. People took part in the love of the dance and the freedom of expression is allowed. The dance was always intended to be a social one, not one where you are compared to others. Times are different and Tango competitions are becoming the norm.

In Buenos Aires in Argentina, there is an Annual Argentine Tango competition held each August. The competition is the World Tango Tournament and forms a part of the Tango Festival. The first of these contests were held in the year 2003. The competition is divided into two distinct categories which have their own requirements for entrance.

The Tango De Pista is the more regimented of the two categories and has strict requirements. Rules are in place and must be followed. This category also requires the use of the traditional milongas figures. The second, more relaxed, of the two categories, is the Tango Escenario. This discipline allows more freedom of expression through choreography and also incorporates other dance styles such as ballet. Up until 2013 couples entered into the competition had to be made up of a male and a female counterpart. Same gender couples are now eligible for participation.

As the Argentine Tango was primarily borne as a mean of expression and took place on a social platform, it was never intended for it to become competitive in nature. Over time and as the dance evolved into the modern day Tango competition seemed the next logical step. Many people are still negative about the competitiveness, however, there are benefits that are quite considerable. It is human nature to strive to be better and competition provides the driving force to improve. The months running up to any competition are filled with extensive practice and training which encourage improvement and defining of your skills.

Tango competition is the perfect opportunity to test your abilities and skill levels. This will define whether or not your need for improvement. It is important not to let any shortcomings damage your self-esteem and confidence. Keep the dance fun and entertaining. Always remember why you started dancing the Argentine Tango to start with.

The development of camaraderie is probably the most enjoyable part of the competition. While you are competing against each other, you are all experiencing the same nerves and thrills as each other. The shared excitement of the event and the experience is the perfect opportunity to develop bonds and build friendships that will span a lifetime. Push yourself to be better and applaud those who have evidently put in the work to create a dance that is flawless. Learn from each other.




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