Argentine Tango
The Argentine Tango evolved in the mid 1800's primarily as a blend of the African Tangano, the Cuban Habanera and the Argentinean Milonga.
It is said that the Argentine Tango was a common dance in the slums and bawdy cafes of Buenos Aires, where it was often a form of solicitation and bargaining for services.
More 'refined' versions arrived in Paris in 1912 and New York soon after and were particularly popular across Europe into the 1920's.
Unlike its offshoot, the Ballroom Tango, Argentine Tango is a smoother, more intimate dance characterized by complex, intertwined step patterns and kicks.
The dance has an unpredictable, moody and passionate personality.
It provides a lot of scope for individual interpretation and expression as the music allows for improvisation in timing, steps and mood.
The intricate patterns and unpredictability develop precise leading and following skills and make this an intriguing dance to watch and an experience to dance.
Argentine Tango is best danced to traditional Tango music and on larger dance floors.