This is great. In my life outside a milonga things aren't so equal. People are treated differently because they are black, or because they dress not in the most trendy clothing, or they speak with a regional accent, or because they are fat, or because they're not as educated as you. I do it myself subtly, involuntarily, probably due to upbringing or experience.
But in a milonga, "The Rules" create an environment where all is equalised - where peripheral behaviour is minimised, leaving only your milonga etiquette and maybe your dance ability to be judged. That Welsh-accented person there could be the best milonguero in town. That big beautiful lady there could give you the best connection of your life. That chap with no qualifications who works in McDonalds has got an embrace to die for and musicality to dream of.
That big beautiful lady there could give you the best connection of your life.
And we all make acquaintances, friends even. A Queen's Councel talking to an office temp, a surgeon becoming good friends with a kids school teacher. Even better, most people won't know the social standing of who they're taking to outside the milonga.
This all has hilarious consequences too. People who rely on their verbal charm, or their glossy magazine looks suddenly find that it doesn't work in a milonga. Sure, some unripe beginners may go chasing pretty bambis or be entranced by a smooth talker - but it doesn't last. There are no shortcuts in tango - the only way to build a reputation is by getting good - good at the etiquette, good behaviour, good comfortable, genuine, dancing. And no, flashy moves aren't included - most definitely not a shortcut to the genuine tango.
There are no shortcuts in tango - the only way to build a reputation is by getting good.
Oh, before I forget. This applies to nationality too. Doesn't matter if you're Argentinian - it doesn't mean you're automatically good. How often have I heard "Oooo I must get a dance with him/her! He/she's from Argentina ..."
So, a message of hope. It doesn't matter if you're green, blue, rich, poor, Argentinian or Lebanese, Orthodox or Jewish. I don't give a hoot. I only give a poo about whether you behave well, and dance well. And that is something you can do something about.
I only give a poo about whether you behave well, and dance well. And that is something you can do something about.