In the first 1/2 hour we just reviewed and practiced the 3 patterns learned in the Rumba 1) Box to forward crossover steps, 2) Box to back crosses (rock steps), and
3) Box (turning) to '3' outside crossovers, and then step back, side & together (back 1/2 of the box - turning).
2nd 1/2 of the hour was the introduction to the Tango dance. We learned that in Tango there is no rise and fall - the legs don't straighten, but rather we stay 'down' into the knees at all times. The man turns his body slightly to the L so that when he moves forward, he has a more interesting look in his Tango that adds some drama to this dance. The girl is (more) around his R side. Her L hand will be behind his shoulder rather than on his arm.
Step 1: Basic Forward step: Man steps forward, forward, then 'forward, side, drag'. SSQQS - The last 3 steps are called the Tango Close, and is a very common way of ending many patterns in American style Tango. VIP not to "pop up" at the end - must stay down. Lady's part is the exact opposite. **If she wants to look and feel her best, she will place her head weight over his L leg & held far enough back that if she had a very long ponytail, it would drop to the floor without touching any part of her body.
Step 2: Promenade Step: Man's steps are almost the same as in Step #1,except that both partners step the 1st 2 steps into promenade. At the end of the 2nd step he will rotate his upper body to bring his partner to face him. Then they both do the Tango Close. VIP for the lady to just 'swivel to face' at the end of step 2, but NOT TO step xss the man on step 3, as he is still coming forward. She should just swivel to face him, but keep her R toe on the floor with no weight. Then she will push that R foot BACK into the Tango Close.
On the last week of dance lessons We have a "wrap up party". Dance classes are not open to the public – members or guests only.
All students bring a food item – ie: appetizers, quartered sandwiches, veggies, or whatever. All foods are placed on tables at the front, and everyone helps themselves buffet style at intermission.
Students can bring their own water, pop, or juice.
