Tango and Romanticism

Romanticism is a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the late 18th century to celebrate the human spirit, emphasizing emotion, imagination, heroism, romance, and idealism. It arose as a response to the dehumanizing effects of industrialization, which prioritized mechanization and efficiency over the complexities of the human condition. Romanticism sought to reclaim the depth of humanity, the beauty of human experience, and the power of emotions. Its enduring influence on literature, art, and culture has been both transformative and timeless.

In our postmodern world, where modernity, technology, and superficial impressions often take precedence, the principles of Romanticism hold even greater relevance. This is particularly evident in tango, a dance intrinsically tied to the expression of longing, emotion, and connection. Tango was not created solely for entertainment but as a deeply expressive medium for the yearnings, desires, dreams, and aspirations that lie at the core of human experience—capturing the very essence of Romanticism (see Tango Is the Search for a Dream).

Critics frequently lament that certain tango performances have devolved into displays of gymnastics or acrobatics, prioritizing physical spectacle over the emotional intimacy that defines true tango. While gymnastics and acrobatics showcase impressive technical skill and entertainment value, they lack the essence of tango, which is fundamentally about the relationship between partners—their connection, emotional interplay, and the communication of feelings. Tango is evocative of a beautiful romance, where the two partners face all kinds of challenges but remain united, connected, supportive, and inseparable. At its heart, tango is imbued with the spirit of Romanticism, standing in stark contrast to the athletic spectacle of gymnastics or acrobatics. Instead of focusing outwardly on physical tricks, tango dancers should turn inward to emphasize the human spirit, connection, intimacy, and emotional expression (see The Conceptional Beauty of Tango).

When stripped of these elements, tango becomes merely a sport or a show—a hollow performance devoid of its emotional depth and richness. Sadly, in a culture increasingly dominated by games over classics, sports over art, and technology over humanity, tango risks losing its essence. Many individuals raised in such a culture tend to prioritize form over substance, constantly seeking novelty and change without appreciating the timeless qualities that give tango its lasting beauty.

To preserve tango's classic beauty, we must rekindle the Romantic spirit in our teaching and dancing. This means embracing simplicity and naturalness, valuing elegance over flashy displays, and striving to convey authentic emotions through the dance. While fashion trends may come and go, Romanticism is a timeless facet of our humanity. It endures, waiting to be revived. When brought to life in tango, Romanticism transforms the dance into a profound expression of human connection and emotion, resonating powerfully across time (see Embracing Elegance).