Taichi Tango
Your Instructor
Eric Arthur
Eric first saw Argentinian Tango on FOX's SYTYCD in 2009. In 2017 he found his first Milonga in Portland OR., He threw himself into mastering it, devoting 3-5 days a week to tango. His devotion to the art of tango is fueled by its similar principles to tai chi. Eric organises events, dj's, and teaches in Portland Oregon. I can provide references at your request.
With over 20 years devoted to the mindful movement arts and 10+ years as an instructor, Eric brings the same philosophy that defines Taichi Living — embodied awareness, relational presence, and the grand art of listening — to the tango floor. His teaching weaves somatic intelligence, connection, and joy into every lesson.
In the diamond that is your tango skill, Eric hopes to add another facet to your collection. Adding to the brilliance of your experience.
"Tango, like Taichi, is the art of listening — to yourself, and to another. In the embrace we find what words cannot hold: presence, surrender, and the quiet intelligence of the body moving with intention."
Possible Workshop Details
What to Bring
- Smooth-soled dance shoes or socks
- Comfortable, non-restrictive clothing
- Water bottle
- Willingness to partner-rotate
- No prior tango experience needed
What's Included
- Weekend group instruction
- Guided Practica
- Chinese Tea & refreshments
- Morning Taichi integration session
- Alt Tango dancing theory
Possible Class Options
Classes with aare recommended.
The Root: Foundation & Connection
The Embrace — The Eyes, Then The Body
Exploring the cabaseo, open and close embrace. The best consent practice EVER! Postural axis, trusting embraces, and the first language of tango: tension-free contact that communicates without words.
Foundation | All Levels
The Walk — Spring In Your Step
Grounding the walk. Forward, back, and lateral steps. Matching energy, initiating and following. Simple body geometry and physics.
Technique | All Levels
Hijacking Vs Conversing With Your Partner
Using the 6-Count Basic we will define the difference between hijacking and conversational tango. Monologue vs Conversation. Making space for a response.
Structure | Social
Be The Giro Hero — Notice The Windows Of Opportunity
Tango is less linear, and more circular. Here we pause to notice possibilities in each step. This is where figures begin.
Musicality | Creative
The Dance: Expression & Dialogue
Collisions Vs Being In The Flow
We develop awareness in how we interact with our partner's body. When to prioritize flow over dynamics. Is tango the, "war of the feet" or "footsie without the table?"
Technique | Beginner–Intermediate
Sharing The Lead
In this class we will explore in more detail how leads make space for followers, and what options a follower has.
Improv | Connection
Boleos, Paradas & Embellishments
Intermediate vocabulary: led and free boleos, the parada (stop) and parada. Follower embellishments — how decoration arises naturally from listening, not performance.
Technique | Intermediate
Socials and Integrative Skills
Morning Taichi Integration Flow
Begin with The 5 Elements Taiji Steps to restore ease in the body and wake the relational intelligence cultivated yesterday. A bridge between arts.
Somatic | All Levels
Alt Class and ½ & ½ Practilonga — Traditional vs Alternative Music
We will go over why the technique of dancing to alt music is different from traditional. Understanding different music rhythms and styles and what the music is asking from us. Followed by 30min practica, then a mixed music milonga.
Social | Optional
Practica — Traditional & Alternative Music
We will go over why the technique of dancing to alt music is different from traditional. Understanding different music rhythms and styles and what the music is asking from us. Followed by a mostly alternative milonga.
Social | Optional
Workshop Philosophy
- Honor the spirit of the Cabaceo
- Non-gendered roles — lead or follow your choice
- Embodied, not performative
- Ease of movement instead of exhausting effort
Continuing Practice
- Ongoing tango classes & social with Taichi Living
- TCL 24 tai chi classes
- Tea & Meditation ceremony series
- Private coaching available
A un buen bailarín se le reconoce por su forma de caminar, no por figuras acrobáticas.
Cost
Each class is priced at $20. A discounted price for the full weekend workshop is calculated once we determine the total number of classes.
- @taichi_living
- Phone
- (503) 841-9515