In Strangers' Arms

There are several gay milongas in Buenos Aires. This one happens on Fridays at El Beso, the same location of the regular milongas Monday- Sunday. I was here yesterday at El Beso, and now,  at the Friday’s gay lesson and dance. I am entering the venue:

Beatriz:  Hola, una entrada por favor (Hi a ticket please).  I am not gay.How will this milonga work for me?

Receptionist: It is easy. You may be asked to dance or you may watch dancers and select who you want to dance with.

ME:  Do we use cabeceo here?

HER: No. You walk to the table and invite the person you chose for the tanda.

I walk to a seat and watch the dancers (note that no one tells me where to sit). I can choose my most coveted seat in the hall!  The one at a strategic point next to the pista (dance floor) that the organizer of the Thursday milonga – solemn and not friendly at all – has never let me have (He refuses saying: It is for regulars). I am glad it is Friday.

I watch the advanced level class coming to an end. Good dancing! I select – in my mind – three dancers who move fluidly, who have internalized the dance so it seems part of who they are.  They are not thinking about steps or dancing; I want to dance with them.

No. No. Not this time. A man comes to my table and invites me. Excellent dancer. This would have never happen at a regular milonga, where men hopefully will see you dance before they send the long distance invite.  The ambiance is definitely more friendly here.

Back to my seat. When the music starts I get up, walk fast toward the dancer I’ve selected.  He accepts graciously and we enjoy a connected, expressive tanda. Hmm… I like this. I like this freedom to choose. I like this relaxed atmosphere.

The overall experience is positive. I enjoy doing something I’ve never done: getting up, walking to a table, and asking a person to dance. It is a first for me in Buenos Aires.
Copyright (c) 2012 Beatriz Dujovne)

Tags: Dancing