Whenever you think of tango, a sensual dance between two partners that twist, pivot and tap their legs comes to mind, packed with abrupt yet graceful movements. But tango is a lot more than that. Initially developed in the 19th century with influences of African and European culture in Argentina and Uruguay, tango is both an emotionally-charged music genre and a passionate dance. This season, you can discover this valued combo in all its glory, thanks to “We Call It Tango” in Ottawa.
Although you’ll take a seat in a charming venue at Canada’s capital, you’ll be transported to the Río de la Plata valley as you hear the soulful melodies of the bandoneon and piano. Alongside the musicians, a talented dance duo will dance cheek to cheek, demonstrating tango’s closed embrace. Places are limited and tickets are selling fast so make sure to secure your spot today.
What is “We Call It Tango”?
Over the course of three acts, “We Call It Tango” tells the story of Amelia, a young and inspiring dancer who lives in the Palermo neighbourhood of Buenos Aires during the 1950s. Through thirteen tangos and milongas, guests will go through a musical journey through both Amelia’s life and the history of tango.
Tango, its music and the show
Tango became a craze in the early 1900s, particularly in the European artist circles. Less than a century later, it was included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List due to its complex nature and long history.
“We Call It Tango” celebrates the complex artform with a compilation of classics from tango’s earliest days to the Golden Era of tango as well as the more recent tango nuevo. Hear songs by the likes of the legendary King of Tango Carlos Gardel, Argentine diva Nelly Omar and tango nuevo superstar Astor Piazzolla.
Prepare to feel a range of emotions, from joy to melancholy and hope, as you enter the world of tango at “We Call It Tango”, coming to Ottawa on selected dates. It promises to be an enchanting night that you won’t want to miss out on.