Feel the core strength in the torso, and the connection of each limb in its socket.
And so it is too, for the perfect tango, a language exchanged between leader and follower. That’s why ladies, I’m asking you to be a “living doll”. More precisely a mannikin, like the wooden ones you see in art supply shops. Your partner in his lead will invest a certain amount of energy, direction and angle into your move – be it the boleo, ocho, or gancho. In fact, in every step. And your perfect execution is dependant on the fact that you can let go and let that amount of force be channeled through your body.
In other words – don’t invest extra energy of your own. The ocho looks too energetic. The boleo too extravagant, and he might lose you. The gancho would feel artificial.
Simply let his energy be transmitted through your body, and the dance will look as effortless as it feels.
I have attached the following clip because it demonstrates perfectly the effortless grace that we aspire to. Ladies, note too, Alejandra is impeccably NEAT in her footwork. Observe her center herself at the end of every move. (Christian, in your comments, could you give the gentlemen a few pointers to take away from a leaders perspective? Thank you).
It’s a beautiful paradox; their energy so gentle and refined, our emotional attachment to them, during the dance, so intense.
Tags: Adrian Veredice y Alejandra Hobert, be, boleo, center, dance, dance tango, effortless, exercise, follow, free leg, gancho, grace, individual, lead, mannikin, ochos, tango, technique, walking
I believe I held my breath thru out this dance. Sharp but shadowed, deep and moving. Just divine-my final thought…I can do that!! I want to dance that well
You’re right! It takes the unerring concentration of a practiced monk, but you can and I’m sure in the end, you will.
I’m sure I remember in some old movie, where the lead male (perhaps Fred Astaire) dances with a mop. The cotton fringes seem to flow and sway in perfect response to his movements. (Upon further reflection, it may also have been the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, where Mickey played the unfortunate lead). Thanks for finding this much more graceful example.
It’s always a pleasure. I’m still awed by the vault of beauty we can find tucked away in YouTube!
Thank you! What an honor!