The Tango Dance Homepage

The Tango dance is one of seduction and skill. It is no longer vulgar, but rather, a well-timed and highly-refined performance, a precise choreography. Indeed, it is regularly spoofed on various televisions shows, and does appear comical at times, but in reality, it is a beautiful art form that takes years to master. Today, the dance is still sensual, but it does not have the gross connotations of its original Argentinian roots.

In fact, there are several styles of tango which generally fall into three classifications including the Argentine Tango, The North American Tango, and the International Tango. Professionals maintain that the North American and International forms of tango are much cleaner (morality-wise), than the original Argentine version. As a result, they are much different both in style and music than the one found in the poorest areas of Buenos Aires in the early 1900s.

There is much to be said about the history of the tango. The exact origin of the dance is hotly disputed around the world. Some believe that it originated in Spain, yet others say that it came from England first, ending up in Spain much later. From there it traveled to Cuba, and ultimately mixed with the immigrant European and African cultures in Argentina. How and when it made its way to North America is no surprise. Once the famous Latin Lover, Valentino, performed the dance in a Hollywood-produced film, everyone in the US wanted to learn the new dance. The audiences were, undoubtedly, seduced by the Tango, an intimate dance form.

The debate around the history of the tango is not the only discussion provoked by this dance. Many will argue whether the dance is a sport or an art form. Various national health organizations have clearly demonstrated that dancing the tango is good for the mind, body, heart and soul. On the other side of the discussion, many see the dance as a type of visual poetry, moving art coupled with music. To be honest, both sides are accurate in their descriptions, as doing the tango is a laborious feat, filled with excitement and creativity. It is fun, it requires memory, it requires strength, and it requires the ability to improvise and think on one's feet.

Due to the constant censorship of the dance over the years, and religious outrage at the implications of the dance, there are invariably, several styles. Additionally, certain areas of Argentina and specific neighborhoods have their own ways of teaching the dance. And, although the tango dance is one of creativity, leaving the couple to compose their own movements, there are, however, strict rules when entering competitions. Depending on the type of competition, certain figures of the dance may or may not be permitted. Leeway, commonly known as "creative license", is more apparent when performing the dance on stage, in a play or other live performance.

Obviously, you came to this website because you are thoroughly Seduced by Tango. We know that you have come to the right place, and we eagerly welcome you. This is the Tango Dance Homepage, where you will learn about the history of this famous dance, and also how you might enjoy learning the Tango.