11.08.06
The Tango
Quite a while ago, when I’d first met my friend, Gloria, from Argentina, online, she had asked me if I knew the “Tango.” The only bit of music I associated with the dance was “La Cumparsita,” a catchy tune that my father used to play on his clarinet. However, I’d never seen the dance performed…until yesterday.
Last night, a group called, “Tango Fire,” from Buenos Aires, Argentina entertained an audience at the Capitol Center for the Arts in Concord, NH, for two hours. There were four musicians: a violinist, a cellist, someone playing the accordion, and a pianist who would alert the other musicians to “the beat” at the beginning of each song, by stomping his foot on the floor.
The program was a mix of pure instrumental music, the songs of one singer, and a number of couples who expertly danced (at the same time), and who have traveled worldwide to entertain, and to be on television. There was so much action on the stage at any given moment, the eye did not know where to look!
The costumes of the women were fantastic, and we marveled at how quickly they changed their garments, from number to number. One thing that made me smile was their use of nylon stockings that have a dark seam that runs the length of the back of the leg. I remember wearing those in the 1960s.
The Tango requires athleticism, to the inth degree. The moves are rapid, sensual, and in many cases, rely on the juxtaposition of genders to relay an unspoken mini-drama via physical movements.
Jim had been looking forward to an evening at home to watch election returns. Luckily, he agreed to accompany me to the theater. He, too, exclaimed that the dancers were spectacular, and he was happy to have attended this event.
The William H. Giles Foundation underwrote the performance and it was free to the public. What a fantastic cultural experience! Now, I can tell my friend in Argentina that I really do “know” the Tango. If you have the chance to see this group, it is definitely worth your presence.
I am so thankful to live in a community that appreciates the ARTS, in all forms.
P.S. They danced “La Cumparsita,” much to my enjoyment!
Pat
