The Advantages of Simplicity over Flashy Movements

The most evocative tangos, those that truly capture the music's essence and the dancers' emotions, are often danced with simple steps. Tango, at its core, is a dialogue between two souls—not a showcase of intricate movements. Simple steps allow dancers to immerse themselves fully in the subtlety of the music and the depth of their emotions. This fosters a profound connection and inward focus, enabling more meaningful communication between partners. True beauty emanates from within, thriving in the connection, intimacy, harmony, and agreement shared by the dancers. These qualities are best expressed through Zen-like simplicity rather than flamboyant, showy movements. Indeed, simple elegance resonates more deeply than complexity.

Art often finds its greatest power in conciseness. Complex Chinese characters are simplified in practice; a modestly decorated house feels more inviting than one crowded with excessive adornments. Similarly, in dance, graceful, straightforward movements exude elegance far more effectively than intricate figures. Artistic simplicity, a principle central to aesthetics, frequently yields unexpected and superior results (see Simple Is Beautiful).

In contrast, performances driven by flashy movements often come across as artificial and superficial. Elaborate footwork and intricate choreography can obscure tango's essence, distracting dancers from fully engaging with the music, their emotions, and their partner. The pursuit of spectacle over substance may inhibit dancers' ability to respond intuitively to musical shifts and partner cues. The resulting performance risks feeling disjointed, cluttered, and contrived, lacking the spontaneous, vibrant, and authentic spirit of true tango.

Though this may represent an extreme example, the tendency toward ostentation is not uncommon in tango. In a modern culture often enamored with gaudiness and pretense, it is vital for tango enthusiasts to resist the urge to show off. Instead, they should focus on what truly matters: the music, the emotion, and the connection with their partner. By keeping things simple, minimizing the frills, and sticking to simple steps, dancers can create a tango experience that is much more intimate, soulful and satisfying. After all, it's not about putting on a show - it's about sharing a moment, heart to heart (see Embracing Elegance).