DC Dance Collective

Jake Spatz (http://tangoDC.com) is among the most recognizable and admired tangueros in DC, with a strong record of commitment to the local tango community as a dancer, teacher, DJ, and event organizer. He has been in constant demand as a teacher of Argentine Tango since 2005, and enjoyed a successful run as house teacher at the popular Eastern Market milonga (tango social) from 2006 until its temporary closure for renovation in late 2008. His other activities in the tango world include the translation of song lyrics, teacher training, and vintage audio restoration. He is now excited to join the staff at DC Dance Collective while he continues to teach and DJ at various events around DC and the East Coast. As a performer, Jake's highlights include: -- The Kennedy Center -- DanceDC Festival 2006 and 2007 -- Baltimore Tango Festival -- Disneyworld Resort (Orlando, FL) -- ArtScape (Baltimore, MD) -- Two television commericials -- "El tango es una historia" (feature-length stageplay; male lead) Jake's teaching is concept-driven and practical, emphasizing creative improvisation and musicality. He gives students a clear map of this most complex of partner dances by avoiding cliche in favor of a more serious, realistic approach. His research into kinetic body mechanics and his analysis of diachronic (two-part) spatial positioning has developed a teaching that anchors stylistic and choreographic variety in one coherent understanding of technique. In the spring 2009 season at DC Dance Collective, the Argentine Tango class will introduce the fundamental techniques, figures, and values of the tango. Students will develop a primary vocabulary that addresses both the realities of the social floor and the stylistics more suited to exhibition.