EXPERT INTERVIEW WITH LIBERTANGO

If you’ve always had an interest in the Argentine Tango but not known where to start, check out our expert interview with Rachael from Libertango in Cape Town. Offering private classes for couples who have a flair for fancy footwork, an introductory class is the best way to get started with this beautiful dance.

Q: Can you tell us how Libertango began?

A: I started Libertango in 2010 when I returned from living from Buenos Aires for two years. I was in love with the tango and wanted to share what I had learned in Argentina in South Africa, and grow the Cape Town tango community.

Q: What is your favourite tango move?

A: I don’t have a favourite move. It all depends on the music. Different movements are suitable for different moments. Some are simple and some are more complicated but we always try to connect to the music.

Q: Why do you teach tango over all the other types of dancing?

A: The Argentine tango is completely unique. It is an improvised lead and follow dance and therefore needs a strong presence and connection with your partner. When we dance tango we get lost in the moment with our partner and the music. For this reason, I see the tango as a form of meditation which is good not only for the body, but for the mind and soul. It is a subtle and sophisticated dance that has so many layers of depth.

Q: Where is the best place you have performed the tango?

A: I have performed at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town with the Cape Town Tango Ensemble. But essentially the tango is a social dance and I have had the fortune to have a lot of dance experience in Buenos Aires, where I think the tango is in it’s most authentic form.

Q: Do you have any funny stories from your classes at Libertango?

A: For me the most exciting classes are those for absolute beginners. It is really a revelation for people that they can start a conversation through touch, without speaking or using visual information, but through feeling.

I also enjoy the partnership with couples to prepare a tango demonstration for their wedding. These are always very exciting projects.

I am a very relaxed teacher and always adapt my teaching to the needs of my students to bring out the best in them

We would like to thank Rachael for answering our questions about Libertango. It is clear that she has a real passion and energy for the tango and is exactly the right person to share her dancing skills with others!