Tango Zen Journal, August 10, 2024
Rediscovering Local Milongas
I've recently committed to diving deeper into local tango scenes, something I've dreamt of for years while moving around. Last night, I attended my first milonga in Basel since returning from the US, hosted at the inviting Milonga Lindenberg Basel on Lindenbergstrasse 8, 4058 Basel.
The evening started on a slightly awkward note. Despite knowing Ricardo Dostal, the co-organizer, for some time and sharing memories from Buenos Aires, his reception felt unexpectedly cool. It seemed almost as if he was surprised to see me at the door, which was a bit disheartening given our past interactions.
However, the atmosphere inside quickly made up for this initial hiccup. DJ Tiziano Franzoi curated a fantastic playlist that brought back delightful memories of milongas in Buenos Aires. I enjoyed three tandas with my friend Adriana from Rome, dancing to the familiar and well-balanced tunes.
The venue itself was well-appointed, with a spacious layout and excellent wooden floors ideal for dancing. Yet, better information about location and parking in the event notifications would certainly help those traveling from afar.
The event was lively, with dancers of all skill levels sharing the floor in harmony. Although there were notably more ladies than gents, which is common, perhaps some creative incentives like quality refreshments could balance the scales and enhance the overall experience, especially considering the entry fee.
A single rose on the DJ's table added a charming touch to the evening, though the refreshment offerings were modest for the entry price. A few crackers and pitchers of water felt insufficient — a small improvement here could make a big difference.
The next event is scheduled for August 30, 2024, and despite the rocky start, I'm eager to return and continue engaging with the vibrant local dance community.
Keep dancing and embracing the local tango culture!
Best,
Image source: Lindenberg Milonga Basel
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