REVIEW - TANGO AFTER DARK - PEACOCK THEATRE -

A stunning spectacle: sizzling, sequinned sensation! The music, the dancing, the singing – the costumes! I absolutely adored this show.

German Cornejo returns with his superb dance company, including his long-term dance partner and collaborator Gisela Galeassi. Accompanied by two sensational singers and seven musicians playing the great tango composer Astor Piazzolla’s ‘Nuevo Tango,’ these ten world-class Argentinian dancers will keep your passion for tango burning deep into the night. If your only experience of the Argentine Tango is Strictly, you need to see this show.

Tango After Dark features five phenomenal couples, coming directly from Buenos Aires. German Cornejo & Gisela Galeassi, Mariano Balois & Micaela Spina, Ezequiel Lopez & Camila Alegre, Juan Malizia & Manuela Rossi and Nicolas Schell & Noelia Pizzo. Each couple brings their own flare and personality to the stage; it really is a joy to watch.

The two singers, Antonela Cirillo and Jesus Hidalgo, bring emotion and expression to the pieces they are part of. Cirillo is stunning, her vocals hitting your very soul, and her stage presence is intoxicating. She manages to strike the perfect balance of being utterly mesmerising and complimenting the dancing, not overpowering it.

The choreography is incredible – the moments of unison are perfectly timed and impressive in complexity, and the moments where couples have solos accent the beautifully expressive music. Choreographed by Cornejo, the individual couples in the company choreographed their own solos with Cornejo refining the steps, as is traditional in the world of Argentine tango, allowing the couples creative freedom to showcase their individual styles. Each couple brings something unique to the dance floor which makes those moments of unison all the more impactful.

We need to talk about the costumes (designed by German Cornejo and Alberto Mauri) – EVERY song has a new outfit with quick changes that defy time – including one onstage change which is immaculately done. Sequins, feathers, satin, rhinestones, tulle – you want it? They have it! Even the violinist has her own gown change during the interval. Costumes go from 50s circle skirts with netting to bias cut satin reminiscent of the height of 20s glamour. What is an absolute delight to behold is the commitment to individuality. As with the unified movements into solos, the costumes have a unifying theme – gold floor length sequins – but neck lines or sleeves differ to suit the personality of the dancer. It is immensely satisfying to watch a visual feast on all levels.

Tango After Dark really is the ultimate theatrical tango experience. It is authentic and thoroughly entertaining. With jaw-dropping choreography and breath-taking moves, it really shows the heart and skill of Argentine Tango. This is a fiery yet sensuous show which leaves you afraid to blink, dare you miss a beat!

Go to see it while you can!

{🎟 AD – PR invite – Tickets were gifted in exchange for an honest review}

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