FAQs.

We teach Argentine tango the way it’s danced socially at Milongas (Tango socials) around the world. We don’t teach a specific style but we teach a broad tango with the goal that our students would be able to lead and follow different styles as they please; both close embrace and movements that requires more space.

We don’t teach stage tango or ballroom tango.

Argentine Tango is a partnered social dance from Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is different from the ballroom tango in its posture, movements and intention -- in Argentine Tango there is no standard way of dancing -- emphasis is on improvisation and each dancer carries within themselves a particular way of dancing it

If you want to learn Tango - the best way is signing up for TANGO 100 at the start of a semester. We offer 2 semesters per year - the spring semester starting in January, and the fall semester starting in July.

A few times per semester we offer a Beginner Bootcamp. This class is a 2h introduction to Tango.

You can also get started anytime by taking private lessons!

No, we work hard to keep the number of leaders and followers balanced, and we rotate partners throughout each class. We feel that trying out steps and techniques with many partners helps accelerate learning, and builds versatile, adaptable dancers.

You should wear clothes that you are comfortable moving in. We will not be doing anything extremely aerobic or rolling around on the floor, so you don't need to come dressed for the gym or a yoga class. On the other hand, you will probably find jeans or other restrictive clothing hot and uncomfortable. Think somewhere in the middle. Typically, we’ll wear dress pants and a nice shirt, flowing pants or dresses & skirts. Of course, in class there is no need to be formal. Simply wear what you are comfortable in. If you wear a short skirt or dress, please wear shorts or leggings underneath.

Please wear low-heeled, comfortable shoes with a closed toe. If you already have some type of dance shoes; (character shoes, ballroom shoes etc.) those are fine to wear!

Leather soles are preferable, but you can also get by in sneakers with a hard rubber sole like Puma, Converse or Tom's shoes. If you have no suitable shoes, socks will do just fine!

Here follows some of our shoe suggestions & tips if you’re just starting out:

• Dance Sneakers: A great shoe to start off with is Sansha dance sneakers. We like them because they have a thin sole for a dance sneaker and suede sole. They are comfortable and not too bulky. They are unisex and they are very affordable.

• Tango Sneakers: Our favorite "all-levels" Tango Sneaker comes from the DNI Tango Store! LATA is currently the only seller on the west coast, and keeps a small inventory at the LATA HQ studio. Ask to try on a pair during practica or your private lesson session! Collection>>>

• Ballroom/Salsa Heels: For following, they are fine if you want to practice with a heel but are not ideal. They are not made with the same structure or quality that tango shoes are made with. If you already own a pair and are comfortable in them, feel free to wear them. But we would not go out and buy a pair for class.

• Socks: If you do not want to buy anything new for the class, you can take class in socks. One downside is that pivoting on the floor in sock could make your feet sore. Pro-Tip: Always bring socks as a backup!

• Street Shoes: Street shoes can be worn so long as you can pivot in them comfortably. You're best off using a low-heeled comfortable shoe with a closed toe and avoiding anything with a rubber sole or a pointed toe that elongates the foot. You can also get by in sneakers like Puma, Converse or Tom's shoes.

• Top-of-the-line Tango Shoes:

Tango has its own dance shoes, most of which are hand-made in Buenos Aires or Italy (and quite pricey). The brands we recommend are Fulana, SUR, Tangolera, Madam Pivot and Regina. However, tango shoes are not required for classes.

If you want to try any of these top brands, please ask us for contact info to local sellers.

Make sure you have enough time to park, get settled, change your shoes, and anything else you may need to do before we begin class. We suggest arriving to the classroom 5 minutes before class begins.

For Group Classes or Private Lessons @Atwater Village: Park in designated spots in the gated parking lot, or on the street.

For Privates Lessons @ LATA HQ: Anywhere on the street (no street cleaning or restrictions).