By Michelle Bailey (@MichelleBailey1)
Be swept away by dancers from Buenos Aires performing the Tango at Folklorama’s Argentina ‘Tango’ Pavilion, on now until August 18. (MICHELLE BAILEY / CHRISD.CA)
The Tango is a partner dance that originated in the 1880’s along the natural border between Argentina and Uruguay.
At this Folklorama pavilion, located at the Centro Caboto Centre (1055 Wilkes Avenue), you will get to witness this dynamic style of dance performed by talent that has travelled over 10,000 km from Buenos Aires to be at Folklorama.
“The Argentinian community in Winnipeg is quite small,” said pavilion media chair Lara Pelich. “It is why we invite these amazing performers to come here and showcase a part of our culture that is so well known.”
Indeed the music, the singing and definitely the dancing make you instantly feel like you are transported to the eighth largest country in the world.
The moment the dancers hit the stage to entertain the full house on opening night, there was no denying the intensity and authenticity of the live music and movement. It was quite mesmerizing.
This also explains why this pavilion only participates in Folklorama every second year.
“We have been involved in the festival since 2002, but only take part every other year because we bring all of our talent from Argentina,” said Pelich.
Flavia Fernandez Fabio serve up pavilion guests with a taste of the fine wines of Argentina. (MICHELLE BAILEY / CHRISD.CA)
While being swept away by the scene on the stage, you get to indulge in the food. The empanadas are delicate yet rich with flavour (I had the beef filled one), the Milanesa sandwich (thinly pounded meat that is breaded, lightly fried and placed between fresh buns with tomato and lettuce) and a dessert of flaky pastry filled with dulce de leche. Total cost $13.
The cultural displays provide a thorough explanation of the region. At one point, I noticed a pavilion volunteer crouched down to explain to a young boy what he experienced during his time visiting his homeland.
Added bonus: As you make your way to the auditorium, you are offered a sample of red and white wines from Argentina. The Malbec is highly recommended.
Venue: As this pavilion only comes around every two years, it fills up quickly. Get there at least 30 minutes before show time and be prepared to park on the grass based on instructions by the attendants.
Folklorama is on now until August 18. Visit Folklorama.ca for further information.
