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Is Cabeceo Dead ?

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There is a conversation being had in plain sight about cabeceo, there are 2 sides to the argument of late:

One side of the discussion that’s come about since the pandemic is that the practice of Cabeceo is dead and needs to stay that way. It’s served its purpose and needs to go away. It gets in the way of social tango happening.

The other side is that this practice of Cabeceo is one of the bedrocks of the códigos of tango itself. It’s what sets us apart from every other social dance. Cabeceo and Mirada, when done properly, allow for the distant and silent question of a dance WITHOUT anyone being embarrassed or put on the spot. It’s still valid and has a place in tango today.

Some have very strong feelings about this stuff. And others are like ‘Dude! Really?’ STFU and dance! Crank!’.

So I’m going to tag some ppl that I know who have in the past argued for either side because they have publicly stated these things. Most may not respond, but I’m hoping some do share their opinions without reservations.

Readers, I want you to keep a few things in mind:

1.) Be civil.

2.) Remember that this group IS global and what may be good for your region of the weeds may not work in others.

3.) I don’t think a Facebook post is going to resolve the debate. I do think that a careful stating of opinions may help to bridge the growing divide.

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You could watch Tango YouTube videos and thereby spend your time, trying to infer, and figure out how things may work in that particular situation. Bend your body this way or that, twist and force this position or that. Place your foot here or there and figure it out. This is known as Tango Twister.  Which can be a lot of fun, but more than likely it won’t help you, because you’re missing something: The explanation from an experienced teacher showing you how to properly excute this stuff from a Leading Perspective as well as from a Following Perspective!

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