Argentine Tango Etiquette

 Asking

During a traditional tango Milonga, asking is done with eye contact and a nod of the head or smile. This form of asking is known as “mirada” and “cabeceo”.

When asking someone to dance, it is expected to dance to a full “tanda” or set of like songs. Tandas are typically played in groups of 3-4 songs and are separated by a “cortina”, a short song that is clearly not a Argentine tango.

Entering the Dance Floor

Due to the rotating nature of the “line of dance” on the dance floor, it is important to not

Embrace

Tango has many embrace variations but typically takes place in a close embrace. Expect to dance in a very close embrace with your partners.

The Line of Dance

Traditional Argentine Tango is a “walking dance”, and as such it moves through space and requires the leader to navigate the floor, avoiding collisions by staying within their line of dance. At FH5, there are generally two lanes of dance on the outside edge of the dance floor. Each lane is approximately 3' wide. Once you enter a lane of dance, stay in that lane for the extent of the tanda and avoid switching lanes during the dance.

Collisions

If you accidentally collide with another couple on the dance floor, acknowledge it with a "Sorry", even if it isn’t your fault. Try to stay aware of your surroundings. 

Physical Discomfort

If your dance partner is hurting you, it is likely unintentional. That person may not have any dance training or might be unaware that they are causing discomfort during the dance. Inform the individual what is uncomfortable before writing them off and never dancing with them again. Asking an instructor to convey tips to that individual is another way to address your concern if you are uncomfortable addressing them yourself. 

Critique

Leave the teaching to practice sessions and classes. Don't give unwanted advice or critique. Using terms like "Do it this way" or "You need to..." are not appropriate on the social dance floor. Social dancing is for fun, not training.

Conversely, it is acceptable to ask for input and to generally communicate about the dance.