WINE AND DINE LIKE THE ARGENTINE... and DANCE like them too!

On Friday, May 6, 2011 First Stage will be hosting its annual Wine Dinner at Westmoor Country Club in Brookfield.  The evening is sure to be an exciting one with plenty of Argentine flair!  This fundraising event will feature traditional Argentine cuisine, diverse wine tastings and a special performance of the Argentine Tango by the Bailando Latin Dance Company.

There’s still time to register for the Wine Dinner if you haven’t already done so!  For more information about the event or to register, click here. 

We asked Nena Souvannarath, Artistic Director of Bailando Latin Dance Company, a few questions about this event and here’s what she had to say:

First Stage:  What are you most looking forward to demonstrating at First Stage’s Wine Event?

Nena Souvannarath:  I look forward to introducing the art of Argentine Tango for those who may have never seen it first-hand.  In our complimentary lesson to the guests, I invite the crowd to take the opportunity to enjoy the dance for themselves by learning basic Tango steps.  Argentine Tango is a walking dance; if you can walk, you can dance Tango! 

FS:  What would you most like people to know about this style of dance?

NS:  The root of Argentine Tango is interesting...it is a product of displaced populations, mostly immigrants, coming together and was first popularized in brothel houses, practiced among the lower classes in Buenos Aires.  However, today, from its rich history and humble beginnings to its wild success in international stage shows, it is a dance that continues to wow audiences all over the world, and is enjoyed by practitioners of all ages and elite. 

FS:  What is the difference between Argentine Tango and Ballroom Tango?

NS:  Argentine and ballroom tango are totally different dances, each with its own distinct body of music and beauty. Ballroom tango is very structured, often choreographed and danced either as a performance or in competition. It tends to be very stylized and theatrical. Argentine Tango is primarily a social dance. There are no patterns or steps to memorize, rather the entire dance is improvised around basic principles of leading and following.  Though it can be choreographed and/or performed in a beautiful and dramatic way, its emphasis is on the potential for intimate connection and communication between partners. 

Meet the Bailando Latin Dance Company Dancers!



Nena Souvannarath



Eduardo Salazar



Melanie Wehr
  

 

 Arturo De La Mesa





 

Nena Souvannarath has been dancing since the age of seven and founded Bailando Latin Dance Company to help the Latin dance community grow and heighten awareness and appreciation for the art of dance through education, outreach, and performance.

Eduardo Salazar is an Argentine Tango dancer, performer, and teacher with over 10 years of experience. He frequently travels to perform at local foundations and charitable events in the Midwest with Bailando Latin Dance Company.

Melanie Wehr started ballet training at age three at the Esther Moody Ballet Studio in Milwaukee.  Melanie joined Bailando Latin Dance Company in August of 2010 and has been one of the company’s most versatile dancers.

Arturo G Hernandez (aka Arturo De La Mesa) is currently doing an Argentine Tango Residency. He is a graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Professor Dan Lee's Academy of Tai Chi Chuan, Pacific Dance Academy, Performing Arts Center Annex, and came to dance with the Milwaukee Ballet Company a few years ago.

Learn more about the Bailando Latin Dance Company, today!  If you would like to try a Free Argentine Tango class, email Nena Souvannarath and mention First Stage’s Blog!