It all begins with a step...
The nature of Argentine Tango is improvisation; it a social dance that does not have patterns or sequences. Its foundation lies in connection, a silent conversation between the couple where the leader proposes a step and the follower responds as they move together around the dance floor. Images of passion, nostalgia, and heartbreak are often conjured when one thinks of tango; however, for those within the Argentine Tango community it can also be a source of immense happiness, joy, and a place of belonging.
In this increasingly disconnected world, tango is a fantastic way to improve non-verbal communication for people of all ages. Our mission is to make tango accessible to all of those who are interested so that they can find a deeper sense of belonging within their community. With every song danced, the legacy of the porteños of Argentina will carry on.
Our Team
Mariela Franganillo
With more than 30 years of experience teaching, performing, and choreographing, her career highlights include: a featured role in Forever Tango on Broadway; performing and teaching at Midsummer Night Swing at Lincoln Center; collaborations with noted musicians including Pablo Ziegler at Carnegie Hall; and a U.S. tour with Julio Inglesias.
Her own shows include—Recuerdo Tango, Tango Connection, Tango Noir and SWANGO the Musical! with screenwriting by Rupert Holmes. Additionally she was invited to choreograph and perform in the Fall for Dance Festival at the City Center.
FB: Mariela Franganillo
IG: @mariela_franganillo
Dagny Arizona Miller
“Allow yourself to be a beginner. No one starts off being excellent.”
Trained as a classical ballet dancer, tango captured Dagny’s heart right as she was going into university. Premed classes kept her busy during the day, but nights filled with tango lit up her soul. She soon realized she was exactly where she was meant to be- helping others find the joy, pleasure, and community she found in tango. These days you can find her teaching in NYC and around the US, emphasizing connection above fancy steps. Her favorite thing is to see her students smiling on the dance floor as they find the confidence to be themselves.
FB: Dagny Arizona Miller
IG: @dagnyarizona