What happens when ballet meets the passion of Argentine tango? Montreal’s award-winning dance company PointeTango comes to the Halifax Fringe with Tango, to the Pointe where ballet and tango coalesce.
As the only company in the world to dance authentic, improvised Argentine tango on pointe shoes, we wanted to create a show that pushes the boundaries of dance by exploring the possibilities and challenges that arise while transitioning from stilettos to pointe shoes.
We learn more in this Q&A with PointeTango’s co-founder and principal dancer, Erin Scott-Kafadar.
Tango, to the Pointe plays Neptune Theatre’s Scotiabank Stage from September 1-6. Visit boldtypetickets.com for tickets, dates and times.
This interview has been edited.
Tell us about Tango, to the Pointe. What can audiences expect?
Tango, to the Pointe is a dynamic dance show showcasing PointeTango’s unique fusion of dance.
What was the inspiration for Tango, to the Pointe?
Tango, to the Pointe is a new work showcasing PointeTango’s unique fusion between Argentine tango and classical ballet. As the only company in the world to dance authentic, improvised Argentine tango on pointe shoes, we wanted to create a show that pushes the boundaries of dance by exploring the possibilities and challenges that arise while transitioning from stilettos to pointe shoes.
Why this particular show now?
After two years of pandemic restrictions not allowing us to perform live on stage, we had built up a hunger to push our bodies to their limits and create PointeTango’s most physically demanding show yet.
Director and dancer of PointeTango, Alexander Richardson, choreographed the show to highlight the importance of physical touch and connection. He drew on this essential element of Argentine tango to reevaluate the meaning of connection during a pandemic when human closeness is restricted.
What do you hope audiences leave Tango, to the Pointe talking about?
We hope audiences will feel a wide range of emotions and be touched by the authenticity of our performance. We are offering audiences to experience the nostalgia of traditional Argentine tango music, the elegant and soft fluidity of ballet, the passion of the tango and the extraordinary physicality of our acrobatic lifts.
Why should someone come to see Tango, to the Pointe?
Have you ever seen tango danced wearing one heel and one pointe shoe? This new and innovative style of dance will keep you on your toes. Tango, to the Pointe offers an astounding performance by world-class performers who share palpable chemistry sure to move you.
Tango, to the Pointe plays Neptune Theatre’s Scotiabank Stage from September 1-6. Visit boldtypetickets.com for tickets, dates and times.
The Halifax Fringe Festival returns to live in-person performances from September 1 through September 11, with more than 55 productions taking place at venues across the downtown and North End neighbourhoods.