Milonga Etiquette

Respect ...
the person you are dancing with

Respect ...
the people around you

Respect ...
the line of dance

 

Tandas and Cortinas at the Milonga

During a Milonga it is generally the custom to play a set of 3 pieces of music, usually grouped by Orchestra. Each set is separated by a cortina, a short piece of non-tango music. The cortina is usually the opportune moment to ask someone to dance the next tanda.

If you want to dance, show your intention

Do not expect someone to interrupt your conversation to ask you to dance. Try not to carry on a prolonged conversation if you are close to the edge of the dance floor, give room to those looking to dance.

Proceed onto the dance floor cautiously

Dancers on the dance floor always have the right of way. Never walk across the dance floor while other people are dancing.

Respect the line of dance

Always dance in a counter clockwise direction, preferably dancing on the outer perimeter.

Be conscientious and courteous to your fellow dancers

Avoid bumping into other dancers. If you do, apologise and try to slow down, recollect yourself, and be more careful. Avoid any steps that could potentially hurt others.

Respect your partner at all times during the dance

It is rather common to dance close in tango, but it's not a requirement. Be sensitive to your partners' comfort level with their personal space. Dancing close is not an invitation for inappropriate behavior.

Respect your partners' level of dancing

If you are the more experienced dancer, compromise by dancing at your partner's level.

No teaching or correcting at the milonga

Never correct your partner while on the dance floor. If you must show someone a step save it for a practica to avoid impeding the dance flow.

Talking is inappropriate while dancing tango

Talk between songs or when off the dance floor. If you must talk on the floor, keep it to a minimum.

Allow the dancers to hear the music

When you're off the dance floor, keep your voice down to allow the dancers to hear to the music.

Personal hygiene is essential

Bad breath and body odour are common offenders. Perfume is not a replacement for bathing and fresh clothing.

Adapted from TangoConcept's Tango Etiquette