The Tango

The tango is a passionate and dramatic ballroom dance that originated in the late 19th century in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is characterized by its close, intimate hold and its sharp, staccato movements.

In the international ballroom style of tango, the dancers hold each other in a closed position, with the man's left hand holding the woman's right hand and the woman's left hand resting on the man's shoulder. The couple moves around the floor in a counterclockwise direction, taking short, sharp steps and emphasizing the beat of the music with dramatic pauses and sudden changes in direction.

One of the most distinctive features of the tango is its use of the "tango embrace," in which the man and woman stand chest to chest, with their bodies touching from chest to thigh. This close hold allows the dancers to communicate with each other through subtle shifts in weight and pressure, and adds to the sensual, emotional quality of the dance.

The tango is known for its intensity and drama, and it has been featured in countless films, stage productions, and television shows. It is also a popular choice for wedding dances and is often taught to beginners in ballroom dance classes.

Over the years, the tango has evolved and taken on many different forms, including the Argentine tango, which is characterized by its improvisational style and strong connection between the dancers, and the ballroom tango, which is more structured and follows a set of predetermined steps.

Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a beginner just learning the steps, the tango is a powerful and emotive dance that is sure to captivate and inspire you.