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Tango Etiquette

Tango is more than just a dance—it’s a shared experience that thrives on respect, connection, and etiquette. Here’s how to make your time on the dance floor enjoyable for yourself and those around you!

✨ Before the Dance...

1️⃣ Personal Hygiene & Self-Care

✔️ Fresh breath, clean attire, and proper hygiene are essential.
✔️ Avoid excessive perfume or cologne—some dancers may be sensitive to strong scents.

2️⃣ Show Interest in Dancing – Use the Cabeceo.

✔️ Engage in eye contact and use a subtle nod to invite or accept a dance.
✔️ Standing in a group may prevent others from inviting you to dance.

3️⃣ It’s OK to Say No to a Dance Request.

✔️ Declining a dance is never rude—you don’t need to explain.
✔️ If you decline, avoid accepting another offer during the same song—it’s considered impolite.

4️⃣ It’s OK to Be Rejected.

✔️ Respect when someone says no—everyone has preferences.
✔️ If the same person declines multiple times, take the hint.

5️⃣ Dress for the Occasion.

✔️ Milonga: Dress elegantly—black is always a great choice.
✔️ Practica: Wear comfortable and flexible clothing.
✔️ Shoes: Ensure your footwear provides good balance and allows for smooth pivots.

6️⃣ Leaders Escort Followers to the Dance Floor.

✔️ Regardless of who initiates, the leader should guide the follower onto the dance floor.

7️⃣ Enter the Dance Floor with Caution.

✔️ Always yield to dancers already in motion.
✔️ Never cut across the dance floor—walk around the edges.

During the Dance...

1️⃣ Respect the Line of Dance.

✔️ The flow of the dance moves counterclockwise—always follow it.
✔️ Avoid stopping abruptly or reversing direction unless necessary.

2️⃣ Keep a Safe Distance.

✔️ Maintain spatial awareness—don’t invade other dancers’ space.
✔️ Adapt your movements based on the crowd—avoid large, sweeping steps in crowded milongas.

3️⃣ Avoid Talking While Dancing.

✔️ Tango is about connection—conversations should wait until between songs.

4️⃣ NO Teaching on the Dance Floor.

✔️ Corrections belong in class or practica—not during a milonga.
✔️ If you must discuss a step, move to a side area away from other dancers.

5️⃣ Be Gentle & Respectful to Your Partner.

✔️ Maintain a comfortable embrace—don’t squeeze or push.
✔️ Leaders should never force movements; followers should feel free to express themselves.

✔️ Dancers should feel safe to express concerns if a partner makes them uncomfortable.

6️⃣ Apologize if You Bump into Someone.

✔️ Accidents happen—acknowledge them with a polite nod or verbal apology.

7️⃣ Avoid Leaving the Dance Floor Prematurely.

✔️ Unless it's an emergency, complete the tanda before leaving.

8️⃣ Always Thank Your Partner at the End of the Tanda.

✔️ The proper response to “thank you” is simply “thank you”—not “you’re welcome.”

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