[Tango-L] Tango in film and what is traditional?

[Charles Roques]

Vince wrote:

<<<	In contrast, the tango that originated in the family clubs 
of the suburban neighbourhoods (Villa Urquiza/Devoto/Avellaneda etc.) 
emphasizes long elegant steps, and complex figures. In this case the embrace 
may be allowed to open briefly, to permit execution of the complicated 
footwork.

                The complex figures of this style became the basis for a 
theatrical performance style of Tango seen in the touring stage shows. For 
stage purposes, the embrace is often very open, and the complex footwork is 
augmented with gymnastic lifts, kicks, and drops." 

Therefore based on the above, if the floor is not crowded or one is putting 
on an authentic milonga from the 30's and 40's, the dancers would be in 
their rights to dance against the LOD. A bold statement yes but what is the 
evidence to state otherwise?>>>


I think you are reading your own conclusion into that.  It does not say that.  For starters, it says that stage performances were only "based" in the Villa Urquiza, etc. style.  Stage dancing does not have to follow a line of dance.  Also just because the embrace often opens or there is complex footwork doesn't mean they are going against the line of dance or not flowing with the other dancers. A good dancer does complex figures when the space and movement (or music) allows, and does not when the space and movement won't permit it, but they never (and did not in the 30s and 40s) dance against the line of dance.

Cheers,
Charles