Istanbul, a city steeped in history and culture, has increasingly emerged as a vibrant hub for tango. This dynamic metropolis, known for its majestic waterways and rich architectural heritage, is capturing the attention of dance enthusiasts globally. The recent surge in international tango events reflects Istanbul’s growing status as a tango destination, making it a focal point for both seasoned dancers and newcomers alike.
The Thriving Tango Scene in Istanbul
Across Istanbul, from the European to the Asian sides, tango schools are flourishing, offering aspiring dancers numerous options for practice and social engagements. Most evenings, vibrant milongas—social dance events—invite participants, boasting a variety that rivals even Buenos Aires, the birthplace of tango. Local culture has embraced this art form, with Turkish universities hosting popular tango clubs that foster a new generation of dancers. Demand for specialized tango attire is met by skilled cobblers and tailors, underscoring the local dedication to this dance.
Sebastian Jimenez, a former world tango champion who has danced internationally, praises the fervor displayed by Turkish dancers. Their respect for tango culture fuels a passionate community that mirrors the spirit of Argentina, enhancing the overall tango experience in Istanbul.
Notable Competitions and Events
Monthly and annual dance competitions showcase talent from around the world, including the recent La Turca Tango Marathon and Championship, co-hosted with Buenos Aires to promote the global reach of tango. This three-day event featured numerous workshops and social dances, culminating in a competitive arena where dancers from various countries displayed their skills.
Among the competitors were local dancers, like Ozan and Tugce Buyukakincioglu, who made it their mission to excel in the competition—motivated by the ultimate prize: a trip to Buenos Aires to participate in the prestigious Tango World Cup. Their journey into tango began during their honeymoon five years prior when they were mesmerized by a tango dance performance. Nowadays, they dedicate around 30 hours a week to practice, teaching, and participating in the tango community alongside their professional careers.
Tango’s Historical Context in Turkey
The connection between tango and Turkey traces back to the founding of the modern Turkish Republic in 1923, when the country’s first president, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, sought to modernize Turkish culture by infusing it with Western influences. Ataturk’s passion for ballroom dancing, particularly tango, shaped the country’s cultural landscape, leading to the inclusion of tango in social settings over the decades. Turkish radio stations broadcast tango music throughout the 20th century, and local composers were inspired to write tango songs with Turkish lyrics, thoroughly integrating the dance into the fabric of Turkish life.
Today, Turkey’s tango resurgence is especially notable, having intensified since the 1990s. The rise of schools and clubs reflects a cultural affinity for tango, with many established in neighborhoods associated with Ataturk’s vision of a secular Turkey. Interestingly, seasoned dancers have attributed this connection to the soulful qualities of Turkish music, resonating with the deep emotions characteristic of tango.
The Future of Tango in Istanbul
Internationally, Turkish male dancers are recognized for their strong “abrazo,” or embrace, essential for creating a vibrant energy in tango. Maria Tsiatsiani, a Russian choreographer and judge at the Istanbul competition, emphasized the importance of connection and comfort in partner dancing, elements that Turkish dancers excel at.
Despite their impressive performances at competitions, local dancers like the Buyukakincioglu couple express a desire for greater recognition in international circles. Even though they faced stiff competition at the latest event, they remain optimistic, viewing it as motivation to work harder and aim for higher achievements in the future. Their story, much like that of tango itself in Turkey, is one of determination, passion, and an eagerness to redefine their identities through dance.