Immortal Tango at the Peacock Theatre

The sound of an accordion accompanied by gold sequins shimmering through the darkness is the dazzling opening for German Cornejo’s dance spectacular. The unison of compelling live music with the structurally inventive style of Argentine tango is one that never fails to disappoint.

Argentinian tango dance duo German Cornejo and Gisela Galeassi bring their 14-strong team to the Peacock Theatre to deliver a showstopper of a performance in a limited three-week run. Consisting of seven couples, variety can be seen not only in the incredible costumes and colourful backdrops but also in the constant reinvention of the iconic dance. From stellar group performances and stunning duets to captivating singing solos, this is a show that injects a new lease of life into the artform. The unusual comedic scenes in between the passion-fuelled dances were an original risk that certainly paid off. Fusing together well-known songs with South American flare helped connect modern audiences with traditional dance aficionados.

Renowned for its unique style, the tango proves alluring in its fluidity without sacrificing skill. The fancy footwork is as strong as the connection between the partners, each offering a new perspective as they take the stage. Cornejo’s choreography is both visually arresting and inspiring with some movements sure to draw a gasp. With the similar height and passion from their previous performances in Tango Fire and Milonga, Cornejo and Galeassi don’t disappoint with their team of champions.

Music and dance are mutually dependent, with the dancers poignantly moving with every rhythm while the passion in the singer’s voice is ignited by the connections brought about in the choreography. It works best when both share the stage, offering a narrative that was otherwise missing and a seductive rhythm. Each costume is as opulent as the next, with vibrant colour setting the mood: voluminous blue evokes sorrow, traditional sultry red exudes passion and black leather emotes strength. The second half of the show perhaps fares better than the first due to a pick-up in pace, but each is nevertheless enjoyable.

With unrivalled atmosphere and glamor till the end, Immortal Tango demands raucous applause from the audience. It’s the revival of traditional tango that ought to be seen.

Vineeta Sathiamoorthy

Immortal Tango is on at the Peacock Theatre from 1^st March until 19^th March 2016. Book your tickets here.

Watch a trailer for Immortal Tango here: