Enfos

The young gentleman’s statement made the tango educator scratch her head. She wondered if he knew tango is a dance form that relies on the interaction and connection between partners. “Did he think tango is just a solo dance where he can do whatever he wants?” she thought.

She approached the young gentleman and started a conversation. “Excuse me, I couldn’t help but overhear what you said. Do you mind if I ask you something?” he said.

The young gentleman looked at her skeptically. “What do you want?” she asked. “I’m a tango educator, and I couldn’t help but wonder if you knew tango is a dance where both partners need to communicate and collaborate to create a beautiful dance,” she said.

The young gentleman rolled his eyes. “Yeah, sure. I’ve taken classes. I know how it works,” he said. She smiled. “Well, I’m not here to tell you what to do on the dance floor, but I can give you some tips on how to make the dance more enjoyable for both you and your partner,” she said. The young gentleman looked at her with interest. “Okay, I’m listening,” he said.
••• She explained the importance and difference of feeling and thinking in tango. Also, how each partner has an equal but contrary role in the dance. She also gave him some practical tips on how to improve her posture, embrace, and footwork.

The young gentleman listened intently, and by the end of the conversation, he reconsidered. “Wow, I never thought about it that way. Thanks for explaining it to me,” he said. A grin spread across her face. “No problem. I’m glad I could help. And who knows, maybe one day, you’ll join us on the dance floor,” she said. As she walked away, the tango educator couldn’t help but chuckle to himself. “Another convert to the tango world,” she thought. Little did she know that the young gentleman would become one of her most dedicated students, spreading the word about the joys of tango and the importance of equality in dance.
••• The young gentleman, named Marios in his early 20s, started attending the tango classes offered by Anna, a 58-year-old dance veteran. At first, he struggled with some of the basic philosophy and principles, but he was determined to learn and improve. Anna noticed his dedication and took him under his wing.

She spent extra time with him after class, giving him personal feedback and encouragement. She also introduced him to other tango enthusiasts and invited him to attend milongas, tango social events, where people gather to dance and socialize.

At first, Marios was nervous about attending milongas. He didn’t know anyone, and he was still shy at the tango. But Anna assured him that everyone was welcoming and that he would have a great time.

She was right. Marios had a blast at the milonga. He met other tango enthusiasts, some of whom were beginners like him, while others were more experienced dancers. He danced with different partners, each with their unique style and personality.

Marios felt like he had discovered a whole new world. The music, the elegance of the dance, and the sense of community among the tango dancers captivated him. He continued to attend classes and milongas regularly, improving his tango skills and making new friends.
••• One day, Marios organized a tango-themed party at his apartment. He invited Anna and some of his new tango friends, and they spent the evening dancing, chatting, and enjoying the tasteful wine and empanadas.

As the night wore on, the party became more and more lively. Anna and Marios danced a few tandas together, showing off their tango skills to their friends. But then, Anna surprised everyone by suggesting they switch roles.

“Let’s try something different,” she said. “Marios, I will start, and you’ll feel.” Marios looked skeptical. He had never been on the “feeling” side of tango before, and he wasn’t sure if he was ready. But Anna encouraged him, and soon, they were dancing a new role in reversal tango.

It was awkward at first, with Marios trying to figure out how to receive the energy Anna was providing. But soon, they found a rhythm and enjoyed the novelty of the experience. Their friends cheered them on, amazed by their versatility and creativity.
••• After the tanda ended, Anna and Marios high-five each other, both feeling a sense of accomplishment and pride. They had just shown that tango was not about traditional expectations, but about the connection between two people, their ability to communicate and collaborate, and their willingness to experiment and have fun.

From that day on, Anna and Marios became known as the dynamic duo of tango, inspiring others to break free from the stereotypes and limitations of dance and embrace the genuine spirit of tango.