Hello from Sun Basked Buenos Aires!
Things are still going great here. Some days are chilly, but the city is still bright and bustling. The Milongas are mainly empty of tourists and many teachers also tour Europe at this time of year, so there is quite a different atmosphere when out dancing. Last night there was a demonstration by four older couples at one place then tends to have a mix of very traditional and modern dancers. All four men had varying amounts of grey hair. All four women had various shades of red. They danced in what is often called ‘Milongero’ style, where the two bodies stay in contact through the entire dance. Apparently this was the main style danced during the 50s in the centre of town, with various other suburbs developing their own particular variations. It was great to see some older women dancing, since all too often you see the grey haired man showing off his steps with the barely 20 year old lady. And their fac
es really light up when dancing, eyes closed, brow furrowed, lips in a faint smile. The steps are not all incredibly complicated but they are obviously full of meaning. Well I hope you get to see something similar some day!
In the meantime I’ve only got just over a week left here. I’ll be back in London for four days at the end of this month, just long enough to organise a fun packed day of Jango, Tango and general great dancing! Hopefully you’ll be able to join us for at least part of it, as we’ve tried to make sure there is something for everyone! We've got a few spaces left, and especially need extra men!
Tango and Jango Workshop Day
Saturday 28th of June 2008
St Mary´s Church Hall, Church Street, Twickenham, TW1 3NJ
Take your pick from a bunch of choices! We really need extra men at this point!
If you want to get to grips with pure Argentinean Tango, or improve your existing skills and repertoire, the first workshop will be perfect for you. We will explore various concepts in style and technique by using some classic figures and steps hot from Buenos Aires ballrooms. This will be suitable for new comers up to int level.
Next, if you are new to Jango but would like to use your tango skills in your modern jive, Chris will take you through the fundamental Jango moves that allow you to easily slip between tango and jive. The basic footwork patterns, how to dance smooth jive, and some great tips on getting in and out of ochos and walks.
For those of you with Jango or Tango experience, or who want some more challenging steps, I will take you through some awesome combinations that are bound to impress at both Milongas and Modern Jive Freestyles. I will be assisted by Monica, who is one of London’s finest tango followers out there!
Booking and cost
You can choose one workshop for £15 or two for £25. Email me amir@jango.co.uk asap to secure your place, with your name, phone number, and indicating which of the following you want to take part in. Payment should be made on the day!
12pm – 2pm: Sensual Argentinean Tango Steps – Beg/Int level
2.30pm – 4.30pm Flashy Footwork Combos Perfect for Both Tango and Jango – Int/Adv
2.30pm – 4.30pm Jango Fundamentals - Inserting style and steps of tango into modern jive – Beg / Int
I look forward to seeing you there! Don't forget to include full name, phone number and which workshop options you want when booking!
All the best!
Amir
amir@jango.co.uk