Tango in Argentina
In Argentina when two men wanted to fight for a woman they didn’t used their fists, they danced.
The dance was a sort of competition for men that was judged by a woman. She gave a preference to the most creative and confident partner that sometimes lead to a real fight with a knife. That is why tango is the dance of a heart and passion is often called a death dance.
The most popular dance in Argentina and in the world -tango was originated as a man dance somewhere in La-Boca, the port town of Buenos-Aires, in the part that is called Camenito. In the past it had a very frivolous style: musical improvisations and angry or even obscene texts. It is very hard to believe it today, when tango gained the biggest popularity throughout the world and was even included to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists. Effectively, it is a combination of Spanish habanera, fandango, Creole milonga and African candombe.
Presently, tango is an example of elegance and sensuality. Indeed, the passion in the dance is not as frivolous as it is thought. The dance is virtuous, there is an exact line, if crossed, ruins it.
The world famous tango dancer Marcella Murizho explained: “Of course, a woman should show that she likes the partner when she dances. But this kind of attitude should be earned. During those three minutes he should become that perfect man, the man of her dreams who doesn’t care about anything in the world, except for her. If he manages to show it and she falls in love – tango will work out well.”
From port taverns the dance was soon transmitted to the elegant halls, and the most talented composers started to write music. Tango was prohibited by the Catholic Church till the end of the World War I. Tango orchestra includes guitar, double-bass, piano and bandoneon.
Argentine tango consists of a great variety of styles that were created in different regions and different times; it was founded as a response to the epochs and even fashion. Argentineans dance it in an embrace which can be a really close like chest-to chest or have a large distance. It is important not only to dance but to import emotions. A good dancer is the one who transmits his/her emotions to the partner through the music. If they feel each other, then they dance. It is not so much about the technique but it is indeed a very tricky footwork
A clap hat and red and black suit, provocative vent hole and fishnet stockings – it is a typical outfit that can be seen almost everywhere in the country. Argentinean tango is a style and great passion. The streets are always filled with thousands of great dancers that are willing to not only show but teach tourists. Argentineans believe that it is no problem to dance it as along as you are willing to share your feelings.