Another sold-out performance at the Plaza Del Sol Performance Hall marked ‘Tango First Century’s’ premier, a tribute to the rich history of tango music and dance. The performance consisted of six tango dancers and seven musicians. Audience members were clamoring for tickets until the last minute and gave the company a standing ovation at their curtain call. The beautiful combination of traditional tango music, dance and song made for a wonderful afternoon.

Seductive tunes and scantily-clad dancers were just a few of the show’s highlights. Romulo Larrea, the musical director, introduced each segment of music based on its theme: either classical tango, 1930s tango ‘- its most prominent years ‘- and modern tango.

The intriguing element about the music was that it consisted entirely without percussion instruments. The six-person orchestra was made up of a cellist, a pianist, an accordionist, a bassist and two violinists. The tempo was kept by the piano and the bass, and at times one of the violinists would create a scratching noise that emulated the sound of castanets.

Tango dance is very distinct and features a series of violent kicks and lifts accompanied by slow and sensual glides. The solo vocalist Veronica Larc, who belted out about six songs, was remarkable as well; singing completely in Spanish, Larc spoke of love and heartbreak in a way that all could comprehend. The ensemble was tremendously inspiring and the event was truly magical.