Tango Seduction to Go on Stage
By Han Sang-hee
Staff Reporter
Experience the fiery essence of the tango with the upcoming performance "Tango Seduction" at Chungmu Art Hall next month.
Praised as a "sensation and a prize of excellency," by the French daily, Le Figaro, the 90- minute "dance sensation from Buenos Aires" will bring dance, music and even a little surprise at the end for local audiences.
Gustavo Russo, the choreographer and one of the performance's dancers, will visit Korea for the first time with his team, including actor and dancer Samantha Garcia.
"Tango Seduction" blends the theme "temptation" into the dramatic dance, with more than 20 dancers moving to the beat in the background.
Divided into three main scenes ― Comic Scene, Tango Classics and Tango Seduction ― viewers will have the chance to witness the passion and energy of one of the most famous dance forms in the world.
The first scene starts with the beginning of a tango, adding a humorous touch. Pay a visit to Buenos Aires during the 19th century and explore the mysterious night life of the city through comical and lively dancers.
Following the historical journey is the "Tango Classics," where dancers will offer the various techniques of the tango. Explore the artistic aspects and styles of the dance and music, from early forms with the tango number ``Kiss of Fire'' to the more modernized versions.
The final stage "Tango Seduction" is the highlight of the show, as it not only offers the spirited movements of Russo and Garcia, but because it features a short, yet intriguing and sexy, 10-minute finish.
The main theme of the last scene is "temptation" and it includes three choreographed stories based on traditional tango, modern ballet and classical ballet, reflecting the various emotions following temptation, such as hatred, loneliness, jealousy, love and revenge.
Garcia, during her last dance, will slip out from her upper costume and dance passionately with Russo, a sensual feature that results in admitting only those 19 and over.
The three distinctive stages will be performed with the music played by the Orchestra of Tango Seduction, comprised of musicians playing the main instruments of the tango such as the bandoneon, violin, piano, bass, cello and drums. The bandoneon is a German instrument similar to the accordion and is considered to be the very heart of tango music.
Russo started dancing the tango when he was 17, and moved up to become one of the most talented dancers in Argentina. Appearing in numerous shows and performances, he toured the United States and Mexico with the award-winning show "Viva Tango." He also participated in the Broadway show "Tango Passion."
Russo created his own company and show "Tango Seduction" in 1999 and has been traveling around the world ever since.
"Tango Seduction" will be staged at the Chungmu Art Hall, Jung-gu, northern Seoul from Nov. 10 to 15. Tickets cost from 44,000 to 88,000 won. For more information, visit www.interpark.com or call (02) 751-9607.