Milango is a sensual Argentinian dance created by using ‘Tango’ as a template. This “Afro-Argentine” dance style is said to have originated in Argentina and has been developed to be performed to the beats of the “Milonga” music. Additionally, in comparison to the tango, this dance style emphasizes a lot more on relaxation of the body and legs. Furthermore, this dance also possesses different styles such as the “Milonga Lisa” also known as the Simple Milonga, and the “Milonga Con Traspie”.
The milonga was established in public places like clubs, associations, and schools during the tango’s golden age in the middle of the 20th century. Younger generations no longer find the dance appealing, but it remains well-liked in some neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, such as San Telmo and La Boca. Younger and queer milonga dance sessions have emerged in other trendy neighborhoods like Palermo and Villa Crespo, challenging the conventional roles in couples dancing.
a. History/origin of Milonga:
It was during the 15th century that Argentina witnessed a large influx of immigrants from countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. It was during this period that dance styles such as the Polka, Mazurka, Schottische, and Habanera got inducted into Argentinian society. It was then that elements belonging to the Polka and Habanera were fused to create this dance style i.e. Milonga. Furthermore, it is said that the extremely “lively” song used in this dance form has been developed in an area called Pampa located in Argentina.
b. Milonga Dancing: What Is It?
Afro-Caribbean and European influences combine to create the Argentine dance form known as the milonga. The milonga relies on close physical proximity between dance partners, much like the tango dance. But compared to the tango, it’s usually looser, simpler, and more rapid-fire. Additionally, the dance may include comedic elements, such as improvisations and jerky or exaggerated movements.
In Argentina, the term “milonga dancing” also describes a gathering or a location where people come to milonga and tango dance. These occasions, which last four to five hours on average, frequently begin with training or demonstration performances, making them perfect for beginners.
c. Costumes used in Milonga:
This dance is performed by both males and females and so the costume worn varies according. They are as follows:
1. For women:
The attire worn includes long/short skirts with openings, as well as dresses i.e. tops that are extremely sensual and usually expose the cleavage.
2. For men:
The attire worn includes a silk shirt, straight-cut trousers, and a pair of good dancing shoes.
d. Music involved in the Milonga:
The major musical instruments used in this dance form include bandoneons, classical piano, Italian violin, string bass, and the Spanish guitar. In addition, the song used in this dance style possesses an extremely lively 2/4 tempo.
e. Milonga dancing characteristics:
Milonga dancing incorporates elements from a variety of cultural dances, such as the polka, mazurka, macumba braziliana, and habanera cubana. It resembles the contemporary Argentine tango. Milonga differs from its musical cousin in a number of notable ways, including relaxed movements, quick dancing, rhythmic walking, humor, and greater emphasis on rhythm.
f. Training availability and the technique involved in the Milonga:
In terms of technique, this dance requires greater relaxation of the body and the legs as compared to the tango. It basically involves extremely rapid movements (of the body and legs) with a lesser number of pauses. Furthermore, this dance is further classified into two forms. They are as follows:
- Milonga Lisa: Also known as “Simple Milonga” this style involves the dancer performing the basic steps in complete harmony with the music produced.
- Milonga Con Traspie: In this style, the dancer usually transfers weight from one foot to the other and back again using three steps in two beats.
With regards to training, there are a number of centres/schools available around the world for all those interested in learning this style of dancing which is said to be extremely similar to the sensuous and dramatic “Tango”.