Heat up your summer evenings with your favorite partner by learning the tango—a passionate, steamy dance that took the world by storm in the 1920s. Whether you’re looking to embrace the romance or master the intricate footwork, the professionals at Danza Academy of Social Dance are here to teach you this dramatic and exhilarating dance. Holding a red rose between your teeth? Totally optional, but always fun!
The Origins of the Tango
The tango originated in the brothels and dance halls of the urban lower class in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Montevideo, Uruguay, within the Rio de la Plata basin. This area was a melting pot of cultures, with European immigrants, descendants of African slaves, and indigenous people all contributing to the dance’s rich and diverse origins. Tango combines elements from flamenco and milonga (a traditional Argentine dance), resulting in its sensual and dramatic style.
By the time the 1920s arrived, the tango had become an international sensation, especially in the United States. The Roaring Twenties, a time of post-World War I prosperity, saw the dance become a symbol of glamour and excitement. The tango is a close partner dance, marked by staccato footwork, flexed knees, and dramatic pauses, making it one of the most expressive ballroom dances.
The Red Rose Tradition
In the 1920s, the tango became so iconic that it inspired certain trends, like the famous image of holding a red rose between your teeth. This playful gesture became widely associated with tango, particularly after a film featuring Rudolph Valentino, where his dance partner held a rose. While this has become a classic image in tango lore, professional dancers eventually set aside the rose to focus on the dynamic footwork that defines this passionate dance.
Tango on the Big Screen
Tango’s romantic allure has been captured in numerous films, bringing the dance to new generations. One of the most memorable tango scenes in film comes from Scent of a Woman, starring Al Pacino. In this iconic moment, Pacino’s character, a blind military veteran, teaches actress Gabrielle Anwar how to tango, showcasing the dance’s sensuality and emotional depth.
Learn to Tango at Danza Academy of Social Dance
Now’s the perfect time to experience the tango for yourself at Danza Academy of Social Dance. Whether you’re new to ballroom dance or looking to refine your skills, we offer both private and group lessons designed to fit your pace. With our online dance platform, you can even learn the tango from the comfort of your own home, following the latest social distancing guidelines.
Let us guide you through the elegant yet passionate steps of the tango, so you can add a little romance to your life—no red rose required! Contact Danza Academy of Social Dance today to schedule your tango lesson and step into the dance of the Roaring ’20s.