Tango Night One - El Nino Bien

So I'm pretty proud of myself. I took a taxi into the ghetto to a hole-in-wall place Jorge (my tango teacher) had recommended called El Nino Bien. The taxi ride was a little complicated as the guy had never heard of it (not generally a good sign). Think graffiti and dark alleys. Once you walk into the double doors and up the stairs though the place is rustic -- in an old school, gold walls, grandma's house, lots of history rustic.

It is known for its long history of tango and where the older crowd goes to dance on Thursday nights -- also the very seasoned dancers choose Nino Bien. Why I would decide this is a good idea my first night out I'm not quite sure.

I was very thankful there was a table in the furthest corner where I could take some time to scope the scene. It was just as Jorge had described. Guys don't really ask you to dance (unless you're trying to hide in the corner, then they have no choice but to physically approach you). They make eye contact with you across the room and if you hold contact you both get up and move toward one another. No words. All in the eyes.

Then, the other strange thing -- you don't dance the intro of the song. This is when you talk to one another (if you speak the same language). Once the dancing begins there is no more talking. AND you don't just dance one song. You are now committed for an entire set of muic (4-5 songs) When the set is over they play this very strange interlude music -- reminded me of Freddy Krueger meets Alice in Wonderland -- and the gentlemen escort you back to your seat. I am so thankful I was walked through the process by Jorge and that all of my partners spoke at least a little english. I danced with a cute boy from Buenos Aires first -- then a tall German guy. Intreresting mix of people.

My other mission tonight - find Jose Garafalo. I was not successful in this mission. Jose is a friend (sorta) of Jorge's that is a dance teacher at Nino Bien and speaks english. No one could locate the mysterious Jose Garafalo. Oh well. Next time.

Tomorrow I'm trying to hit some dance classes in the afternoon, buy tango shoes and then La Viruta for milonga in the evening. I believe La Viruta is known for a younger crowd. I would be super happy if they played a little salsa; something I can actually keep up with.