The TANGO is one of the most popular, and most fascinating, of the ballroom dances. No respectable ballroom in town will end a night without at least five sets of the Tango. Its popularity can probably be attributed to the exceptional challenge which the dance poses on both partners to interpret its sensually rhythmic music into a quite liberal yet refined expression of the rituals of seduction. 
     The history and character of the dance allows modern dancers the freedom of jointly creating and unfolding a dramatic story while each partner maintains individual style, even as the dance execution demands full and deliberate control of each body movement. Thus a simple spontaneous interpretation or an intricately choreographed piece can both be a truly exhilarating performance and experience for both partners.
      Tango in the Philippines was developed from the American style, following its introduction by the Americans in the early part of 20th century. At first the Filipino aristocracy studiously copied the American patterns, and performed these in their elite clubs and home parties, unaware of the originally disreputable origins of the dance. Later the dance was picked up by other family members who tried the dance steps and character as they visually observed others performing it. Soon new amalgamations and syncopations compatible with our spirit of creativity and individualism were produced.

"Dancing Tango on 9 de Julio Avenue"
by Leonor Escardo.
Check out her other "to die for" works at her home page.

Learn more about the Universal Unit System from Ms. Skippy Blair's
 DISCO TO TANGO and BACK PLUS

Jeff Allen's
Quickstart to Tango
is a 'how  to' of Argentine & American Tango, and contains discussions on Technique, Exercises, Choreography & Attitudes for both Tango styles. Filipino dancers will  likely find this book the next best thing to studying Argentine Tango from a video or with the best teacher.