The husband and wife team had amassed years of experience in various forms of dance.
Patricia Lusic brought tap and ballet to the mix, and Bobbi Lusic had a background in ballet and folkloric dance.
But once they embraced the beauty and the subtlety of Argentine tango — that was it.
Starting this week the Lusics are offering beginners’ lessons in Chilliwack through their school, Portal a Tango, as well as in Abbotsford and Richmond.
Bobbi Lusic is a former resident of Chilliwack, who was eager to get the lessons going in his old hometown. Together they have been teaching tango since 2005.
“There is such a vibrant dance community here,” Patricia says. “Bobbi remembers taking his very first tango lessons in Chilliwack. We really wanted to bring tango back to the community.”
What characterizes Argentine tango?
“It is a partners’ dance and it is improvised,” explained Patricia Lusic. “So it’s not just that we know the same moves of the dance.
“What you learn in tango is elements and some of the non-verbal codes of communication. The leader and follower work together.”
Part of the growing popularity of this form of tango is due in part to the substantial viewership of the TV show, Dancing With the Stars. Three of the all-time favourite dances from previous seasons were Argentine tangos, she said.
What is the appeal?
“First it’s the music,” said Bobbi. “I experience the music very deeply; it really touches me. But tango dance also provides me with a unique opportunity to connect with another person for a brief period of time. It teaches me to let go of the experience once the dance is over — no matter how beautiful it was.”
In Chilliwack, beginners lessons will take place every Thursday starting January 27 from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. at the Chilliwack Senior Recreation Centre, at 9400 College Street. Prices vary from $162 for a 12-lesson season pass, to $90 for a beginners’ package to a $20 drop-in fee.
The lesson is followed by a ‘practica,’ a forum where students can practise what they are learning.
“Although they say it takes two to tango, you don’t need a partner to learn Argentine tango with us,” said Patricia. “We use a number of methods to ensure every student has a rich dance experience.”
The curriculum is structured and progressive and the teaching style is supportive and friendly, she says. Learn the culture, the etiquette, the movements, and the magic.
To register call 778-773-9904 (cell) or email dancetagonow@gmailcom