HASTA A LA PROXIMA! UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN!

THANK YOU     THANK YOU     THANK YOU

 

 

El tango te espera…  Tango is waiting for you, for an entire Thanksgiving weekend or just for the Saturday show, where children 17 and under have free admission.

THE SHOW – October 8th, 2016 at 7:00pm, 4500 Arbutus Street / Hellenic Community of Vancouver (see ‘registration‘ for ticket purchase)

  • Grammy-nominated Emilio Solla’s Tango Trio, with Emillio Solla /piano; Maestro Raul Jaurena /bandoneon; Pedro Giraudo / bass.
    The group appeals to both jazz and tango aficionados alike as Solla is well known in Jazz circles, having performed all around Europe, Japan, the US and Latin America to rave reviews in many of the most important Jazz houses and Festivals (Bim Huis, Lincoln Center, Marciac, Blue Note, Fasching).

“The virile throb of Astor Piazzolla’s nuevo tango was omnipresent in the pianist Emilio Solla’s stately pulse…”New York Times

Raul Jaurena is virtuosic on the bandoneon and is a musician of historic importance in tango. As noted in his bio, Jaurena’s music reflects the influences of different cultures as well as one hundred years of tango history with all its contradicting emotions. Jaurena – the man that Astor Piazolla once called one of the greatest bandoneon players ever – has established a unique connection to his instrument: Genuine, open, touching, with stunning technical brilliance his play has enriched and added an important facet to modern tango interpretation.

Rounding out the trio is Pedro Giraudo, whose compositions combine his love of classical forms, Argentine tango and folk music, and the spontaneity of jazz improvisation.

  • Masters of Argentine tango:  Alejandra Armenti & Daniel Juarez (Buenos Aires): For their artistic contributions beginning with the National Folklore Ballet of Argentina and reaching out to an entire world, Alejandra and Daniel were celebrated by the City of Buenos Aires and Argentina for years of artistic trajectory ; Sara Grdan ( Croatia)  & Ivan Terrazas ( Mendoza, Argentina) are passionately dedicated to Argentine tango. Energetic, skillful and artful, they are among the most recognized performers and teachers in the world of Argentine tango today.

LEARNING ARGENTINE TANGO – four classes in four days 
There’s a stereotype of tango we associate with the showy theatrics of touring shows, like Forever Tango, but tango as danced in the social halls of Buenos Aires is what La Garufa will feature and Vancouverites will have a chance to learn this style in a series of 4 workshops for beginners, taught by first class tango instructors Alejandra Armenti and Daniel Juarez, from Buenos Aires; and Sara Grdan (Croatia) and Ivan Terrazas (Argentina). Try one or all as you wish: the beginner package or individual classes.

MISSION

To promote Argentine tango dance and culture. To preserve unaltered the essence of Argentine Tango dance, music and culture. To support the creation and production of new artistic work by emerging and established artists. To contribute to the professional development of those artists. To foster the empowerment of people and respect for cultural diversity. To encourage collegiality, friendship and mutual respect. No tango festival was ever possible without the generosity of volunteers. We believe in people’s inherent goodness, integrity and potential.

BIENVENIDO A TODOS

Por mas que caiga del cielo el mas tremendo aguacero vos sabes que te esperamos para que bailes primero.

Y si la lluvia no para y ya te vas a tu casa pensa en como disfrutaste te secas…y todo pasa. NO FALTES

“For even if a deluge falls from the heavens, we still want you to dance first. And even if the rains do not cease, you can still return home satisfied, and reflect on how much pleasure you took in the night. And you will dry. And all passes. DON’T MISS IT.”

CELEBRATE WITH US

Welcome to our Vancouver tango festival:

  • World-renowned masters of Argentine tango
  • 20 international artists and DJs
  • 20 classes to choose from
  • 4 days and 4 nights of dancing, cocktails
  • fashion show 
  • tango show  

OUR ARTISTS

We bring to you the best dancers and teachers in Argentine tango.

ARGENTINE TANGO MASTERS

Alejandra Armenti & Daniel Juarez with their very talented Valentin Juarez

Sara Grdan & Ivan Terrazas

LIVE MUSIC: GRAMMY NOMINATED EMILO SOLLA’S TANGO TRIO

Masters of Argentine Tango

Alejandra Armenti & Daniel Juarez - read full bio here:

Masters of Tango

Sara Grdan and Ivan Terrazas - read full bio here:

Emilio Solla's trio from New York


Grammy nominated Emilio Solla’s trio from New York in the following formation:
– Grammy nominated Emilio Solla / piano ( www.emiliosolla.com )
– Latin Grammy awarded Maestro Raul Jaurena / bandoneon ( www.rauljaurena.com )
– Pedro Giraudo  / bass ( www.pedrogiraudo.com )
They will absolutely delight us with music in the show and will play danceable tango in the milonga following the show.

OUR DJ's

Robert Hauk (Portland)

Vivian Konstantakos (Seattle)

Gregory “Grisha” Nisnevich (Denver)

Sabah Chammas (San Diego)

Tatiana Balashova (Vancouver)

Marina Richter (Vancouver)

Jessie Chung (Vancouver)

DJ

Vivian Konstantakos

DJ

Sabah Chammas

DJ

Tatiana Balashova

DJ

Jessie Chung

DJ

Robert Hauk

DJ + Music

Gregory ``Grisha`` NIsnevich

DJ + Music

Marina Richter

Pia Shandel - Festival MC

Pia Shandel, Vancouver, host, MC, TV, Vancouver broadcasting, La Garufa, TangoPia Shandel has been a part of Vancouver’s media life for many years, through television, radio, newpapers, magazines and live events.  From her early days as distaff host of the ‘Vancouver’Show on Channel 13 to her present incarnation on podcast ‘Route66’, Pia has always been spotting the trends in Vancouver life.  After a trip to Buenos Aires which introduced Pia to Tango, she has been seeking to improve her skills in this beautiful dance, and support and encourage the tango community in Vancouver.  It’s never too late to express the deep inner feelings that tango touches in all its dancers!  Welcome to La Garufa!

MORE INVITED ARTISTS AND PERFORMERS

Gregory “Grisha” Nisnevich -music (Denver)

Sara Thomsen ( Seattle) and Albano Goldenberg ( Buenos Aires)- dance

Monica and Gabriel Monty – dance (Vancouver)

Dance

Sara Thomsen & Albano Goldenberg

Dance

Gabriel & Monica

FESTIVAL Schedule Summary

THURSDAY OCT. 06 2016
Time Hall
18:00 REGISTRATION 3150 Ash Street St. Mary's Ukranian Catholic Centre
19:00 – 20:30 Introduction to Argentine Tango Alejandra & Daniel
21:00 OPENING NIGHT MILONGA – demo at 10:45 (DJ: Jessie)
FRIDAY OCT. 07 2016
Time Hall Room A Foyer
11:00 REGISTRATION The Hellenic Community Centre 4500 Arbutus Street
12:00 – 13:15 A & D: changes of direction through correct body communication – INTADV  S & I: traditional styling class – concepts passed on from great traditional dancers – ALL LEVELS
13:30 – 14:45 S & I: soltadas – INTADV  Sara T. & Albano G.: body conditioning for the tango dancer –  ALL LEVELS
15:00 – 16:15 A & D: how to build complex figures from simple figures –  INTADV S & I:  boleos – giving time and stealing time –  INTADV
16:30 – 17:45 A & D: technique for lapices and planeos –  INTADV G: Musicality of Vals Cruzado” The definition of “Cruzado” as playful rhythm and movements ALL LEVELS
18:00 – 21:00 Afternoon Mixer (DJ: Grisha)
19:00 – 20:15 Introduction to Argentine Tango Sara & Ivan Afternoon Mixer
20:00 – 21:00 Afternoon Mixer
21:00 – 02:30 Milonga + Fashion Show (DJ: Vivian)
SATURDAY OCT. 08 2016
Time Hall Room A Foyer
11:00 REGISTRATION The Hellenic Community Centre 4500 Arbutus Street
12:00 – 13:15 S & I: turn combinations and axis concepts – INTADV  A & D: embellishments for leader and follower and how to apply them in dance – INTADV
13:30 – 14:45 A & D Beginners 3rd class in package ALL LEVELS  S & I:  on-axis. edge-of-axis. off-axis movements – INTADV
15:15 – 17:30 tech rehearsal main hall closed
16:30 – 19:00 Afternoon Mixer (DJ: Marina)
19:00 –  20:15 SHOW TIME!
20:00 – 21:00 Pre milonga cocktail party. Inaugurating our signature martini La Garufa
21:00 – 2:30 GALA MILONGA (DJ: Sabah)
SUNDAY OCT. 09 2016
Time Main Hall Room A Foyer
11:00 REGISTRATION The Hellenic Community Centre 4500 Arbutus Street
12:00 – 13:15 A & D: enrosques for leader and follower. dissociation. rhythms – INTADV  S & I:creating and using density – ADV ONLY
13:30 – 14:45 S & I: beginners 4th class in package  – ALL LEVELS are welcome Sara T. & Albano G.: body conditioning for the tango dancer ALL LEVELS
15:00 – 16:15 A & D: boleos and patadas for leader and follower – INTADV G: traspie and traspie-contrapunto in milonga vals and tango.” ALL LEVELS
16:30 – 17:45 A & D: barridas for leaders and followers in turns / giros – INTADV Afternoon Mixer until 19:30 (DJ: Tatiana)
19:00 – 20:15 S & I technique class (Feral Tango Laboratory); no partner required – ALL LEVELS
20:30 – 00:30 CLOSING MILONGA (DJ: Robert Hauk)
01:00 -0 5:00 ALL NIGHT MILONGA  (not included in the package) (DJ BATTLE: 4 DJS – one dance floor) – location: Tango a Media Luz 2155 Commercial Drive. cover $10.00 pay at the door cash only
MONDAY OCT. 10 2016
Time Hall
12:00  Goodbye brunch with our artists DJs volunteers at ( location TBA)
20:30 – 23:30 Milonga La Lunita

IN DETAILS…

THURSDAY OCTOBER 6, 2016

LOCATION: ST. MARY'S UKRANIAN CATHOLIC CENTRE 3150 ASH STREET

18:00PM

REGISTRATION OPEN

18:00PM - 1 hour

If you paid online, you may pick up your package now.

If you missed the online registration and want to take the class, you may pay at the door. Please arrive early to avoid last minute crowding.

If you are NEW TO TANGO, here is the suggested dress code for classes: well groomed, dress for comfort and appearance; wear comfortable, clean, non marking shoes. Please do not bring your street shoes on the dance floor.

If you are NEW TO TANGO (OR NOT), here is a little more on etiquette, coming from centuries of wisdom:

“All food or drinks which taint the breath or cause disagreeable eructations should be avoided by persons going into company. Onions emit so disagreeable an odour that no truly polite person will eat them when liable to inflice their fumes upon others.” – John S. Marr, ‘How to Behave: A Pocket Manual of Etiquette’ (1867)

“He must not smell of drink or body odour” – James Lovell

“Most dear actors, eat no onions nor garlic, for we are to utter sweet breath.” – William Shakespeare.

19:00PM

CLASS: Introduction to Argentine tango with Daniel Juarez and Alejandra Armenti

19:00PM -

Are you curious about Argentine tango? This is the first class recommended in the Beginner Package.
Understanding the body: body position / stance; weight; pivot; embrace.
Different exercises related to the topic of the class. First steps.
Suggested dress code for classes: well groomed, dress for comfort and appearance; wear comfortable, clean, non marking shoes. Please do not bring your street shoes on the dance floor.

21:00PM

THE OPENING NIGHT MILONGA

21:00PM - until late

The Opening Night Milonga:

Dance until late. Light refreshments, wine and great music in a beautiful venue with wooden sprung floor and great sound system.
DJ: Jessie

11 PM Welcome: a brief demo showcasing the participating tango masters: Alejandra Armenti & Daniel Juarez; Sara Grdan & Ivan Terrazas.

FRIDAY OCTOBER 7, 2016

LOCATION: THE HELLENIC COMMUNITY CENTRE 4500 Arbutus Street

11:00AM

REGISTRATION

11:00AM -

Registration open.

Vendors open.

12:00NOON

CLASS

12:00NOON -

(MAIN HALL) A & D  Warm up/ individual exercises focused on the topic 15′. Walk. Posture. Embrace. Change of direction through correct body communication. Practical applications: different sequences.  INTADV
(ROOM A) S & I Traditional styling class: Ivan and Sara were handpicked by Natalia Hills to form part of her prestigious company Romper el Piso. It’s main goal is the preservation of traditional tango technique and style. In this class Sara and Ivan will be teaching concepts and movements passed on to them by the great traditional dancers of Buenos Aires such as Natalia Hills Raul Bravo Toto Carlitos Perez and others. Experience the grounded elegance of traditional tango. ALL LEVELS
13:30PM

CLASS

13:30PM -

(MAIN HALL) S & I :Soltadas  – Leading and following simple spins and walking turns for leaders and followers. INTADV
 (ROOM A) Sara Thomsen: Body conditioning for the tango dancer. Don’t miss this great class. Sara has a wide background in a variety of dance styles, she is well known and well respected locally and internationally. ALL LEVELS
15:00PM

CLASS

15:00PM -

(MAIN HALL)A & D – Warm up/ individual exercises focused on the topic 15′. How to build complex figures from simple figures. Figures in close embrace. Technique for turns (giros). Practical applications: different sequences. INTADV
(ROOM A) S & I  – Boleos as embellishments for leaders and followers: giving time and stealing time. Boleos as ganchos. INTADV
16:30PM

CLASS

16:30PM -

(MAIN HALL) A & D -Warm up/ individual exercises focused on the topic 15′.  Technique for lapices and planeos for leader and follower. How to apply them when dancing in couple. Practical application: different sequences with the music of Di Sarli. INTADV
(ROOM A) G Musicality of Vals Cruzado”. The definition of “Cruzado” as playful rhythm and movements. ALL LEVELS
16:30PM

AFTERNOON MIXER in room A

16:30PM -

Drop in and dance tango from traditional to nuevo or alternative rhythms. Perfect sequel for the musicality class. Discovering new layers of familiar songs and loving them in their new light.

Room A is the cosy space on the top floor, adjacent to the foyer.

DJ: GRISHA

19:00PM

INTRODUCTION TO ARGENTINE TANGO WITH IVAN TERRAZAS AND SARA GRDAN

19:00PM -

This is the second class recommended in the Beginner Package.

If this is your second lesson, enjoy the material presented this time by Ivan and Sara: Argentine tango from a different perspective. An opportunity to work more on your freshly acquired basics.

Sara and Ivan present their 1st class of their Foundation Material: introducing and / or reinforcing basic tango technique.

If you did not purchase the beginner package you may still join the class ( space permitting). Please arrive at least 20 minutes early.

Reminder – Suggested dress code for classes: well groomed, dress for comfort and appearance; wear comfortable, clean, non marking shoes. Please do not bring your street shoes on the dance floor.

21:00PM

MILONGA

21:00PM -

A long night of dancing in this stunning venue, with great music, light refreshments and cash bar.

At 23:00 Fashion Show – New Eco Collection from Elena Uretskaya/ Tango Aura tangoaura.com. The very talented Elena is introducing her newest creations designed with the tango dancer in mind, all from natural fibre.
DJ: Vivian

SATURDAY OCTOBER 8, 2016

LOCATION: THE HELLENIC COMMUNITY CENTRE AT 4500 ARBUTUS STREET

11:00AM

REGISTRATION

11:00AM -

Registration open.

Vendors open.

12:00NOON

CLASS

12:00NOON -

(MAIN HALL) S & I – Turn combinations and axis concepts: common axis. single axis. combining both. INTADV
(ROOM A)A & D – Warm up/ individual exercises focused on the topic 15′. Embellishments for leaders and followers and how to apply them in dance. Embellishments in pauses, ochos and turns ( giros). Practical application in different sequences. INTADV
13:30PM

CLASS

13:30PM -

(MAIN HALL) A & D Beginners: Warm up/ individual exercises focused on the topic 15′. The feeling in the embrace. Rocking movements. Guiding the dance and communication in couple through the contact from the torso.
(ROOM A)S & I –  On-axis, edge-of-axis and off-axis possibilities to generate energy and create momentum for displacements and turns. INTADV 
15:00PM

CLASS

15:00PM -

( MAIN HALL) tech rehearsal 
(ROOM A) – 
16:30PM

AFTERNOON MIXER in Room A

16:30PM - 3hours

DJ: Marina

19:00PM

SATURDAY SHOW: ARGENTINE TANGO PERFORMANCES WITH MASTERS AND INVITED ARTISTS

19:00PM - 1hour

MC: Pia Shandel

It is SHOWTIME! We invite you to take a short voyage with us through time and across continents to discover flavours and fragrances of Buenos Aires where Argentine tango holds iconic power. Enjoy the music and dance of Argentine tango as it evolved in time from many decades ago until the present.

If you know tango, love tango, or if you are curious about it, or if you look for a pleasant late afternoon entertainment alone or with the entire family this one hour long performance promises you a good time for the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. You won’t regret it.

Beautiful and exciting artists line-up for dance and live music, from Buenos Aires, Seattle, New York, Croatia, Spain, Uruguay and Vancouver:

Alejandra Armenti, Daniel Juarez and son Valentin Juarez ( Argentina) , Sara Grdan  and Ivan Terrazas ( Croatia/ New York/ Argentina), Grammy nominated Emilio Solla ( Argentina/ New York), Latin Grammy Award Raul Jaurena ( Spain/ New York), Pedro Giraudo ( Uruguay/ New York), Gregory ‘Grisha’ Nisnevich ( USA / Russia)  Sara Thomsen ( Seattle) and her group Tango en Vie, Doc Ramone (Vancouver), Monica and Gabriel Monty (Vancouver)

20:00

PRE MILONGA COCKTAIL PARTY

20:00 -

(THE FOYER – upstairs) Martini time! Sample our signature La Garufa martini.

Non-alcoholic beverage and other refreshments also available.

This is a cash bar.

9:00PM

GALA MILONGA

9:00PM - until late

Dress up. Dance until very late.
Complimentary light refreshments and wine.
(more information coming soon)
DJ: Sabah

SUNDAY OCTOBER 9, 2016

LOCATION: THE ST. GEORGE'S HELLENIC CENTRE 4500 ARBUTUS STREET

11:00AM

REGISTRATION

11:00AM -

Registration open.

Vendors open.

12:00NOON

CLASS

12:00NOON -

(MAIN HALL) A & D -Warm up/ individual exercises focused on the topic 15′. Enrosques for leaders and followers. Dissociation. How to apply enrosques as figures or embellishments. Different sequences with rhythms of Juan D’Arienzo. INTADV 
(ROOM A)S & I Creating and using density: Generating and maintaining oppositions. Acceleration an deceleration  for movement with texture. ADV ONLY 
13:30PM

CLASS

13:30PM -

( MAIN HALL) S & I: This class is the last in the series recommended in the Beginner Package
Sara and Ivan continue the topics in their Foundation Material: posture, balance, quality of movement; exercises and simple steps for improving connection and continuity of movement for the couple; the Tree of Tango, where it all begins and ends.
(ROOM A) Sara Thomsen:Body conditioning for the tango dancer. Don’t miss this great class. Sara has a wide background in a variety of dance styles, she is well known and well respected locally and internationally. ALL LEVELS
15:00PM

CLASS

15:00PM -

(MAIN HALL) A & D – Warm up/ individual exercises focused on the topic 15′. Boleos and patadas for leader and follower. The technique for boleos and patadas applied in dance. The mark (lead) for boles and in embellishments. Practical application: different sequences. INTADV
(ROOM A) G – Traspie and Traspie-Contrapunto in Milonga, Vals and Tango. “Traspie-contrapunto” to bring more creative ideas playing with the rhythm and for the common movements.  ALL LEVELS
16:30PM

CLASS / AFTERNOON MIXER in room A

16:30PM -

(MAIN HALL) A & D – Warm up / individual exercises 15′. Barridas for leader and follower. How to create your own sequence based on the technique for turns (giros). Practical application: different sequences. INTADV
(ROOM A) Afternoon Mixer ( 16:30 – 19:30)

DJ Tatyana 

19:00PM

TECHNIQUE CLASS WITH SARA AND IVAN

19:00PM -

(MAIN HALL) S & I: An introduction to Feral Tango Laboratory Redux Series of Sara and Ivan; a class for leaders and followers with emphasis on technique and body mechanics. The goal of this workshop is to cover all of fundamental tango technique ( mechanics and dynamics) and to give students material to work on for a longer period of time. This class will have mostly individual work, with Sara for followers and with Ivan for leaders. A partner is not necessary. ALL LEVELS

20:30PM

CLOSING MILONGA

20:30PM - 00:30AM

20:30 – 00:30 DANCE!

DJ: Robert Hauk

01:00

ALL NIGHT MILONGA

01:00 - 05:00

1:00 AM ALL NIGHT MILONGA: location – Tango a Media luz, upper floor at 2155 Commercial Drive ( the corner Commercial and 6th Avenue), at 10 minutes drive from the festival venue.
This is a 3000 sf space with wooden floor located on the popular Commercial Drive. The building is easily recognized by the lit bowling pin sign.
Please note that this event is not included in the festival package. Cover: $10.00 at the door (cash only).

Keep the engines going! Monday is a holiday and we plan to continue the party.
DJ BATTLE: one dance floor and 4 DJS to give it all

MONDAY OCTOBER 10, 2016

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

12:00 NOON

GOODBYE BRUNCH WITH ARTISTS & DJS

12:00 NOON -

Brunch at ( location TBA).
A reunion post festival among all friends and artists who participated.
If you would like to come, please contact the restaurant with your name and mention La Garufa Brunch
Cost: pay whatever you consume. No cover.

20:30PM

LA LUNITA MILONGA

20:30PM - 3 hours

La Lunita milonga
Charge: $10.00 CAD pay at the door. cash only
Location: 2474 Prince Edward St

Saturday show

$35.00 at the door only. Doors open at 6:30

Hellenic Community of Vancouver

4500 Arbutus Street.

Online registration  is now closed.

CAD35.00

register now

REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT POLICY

PLEASE NOTE THAT ONLINE REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED

REGISTRATION AT THE VENUE OPENS AS FOLLOWS:

Thursday, October 6th, 2016, at 6pm  at St. Mary Ukranian Catholic Centre, 3150 Ash Street

Friday ( 7th), Saturday (8th), Sunday (9th), 2016, at 11 am at Hellenic Community of Vancouver, 4500 Arbutus Street

FULL PACKAGE: $500.00 /person or $950.00/ couple – It offers unrestricted access to ABSOLUTELY all activities: 23 classes to choose from, 7 milongas,  performances,  and Saturday show.

Your full package comes with a complimentary shoe backpack, notebook and a t-shirt.

 

BEGINNER PACKAGE: $200.00 / person or $360.00 / couple.; or just buy a lesson or two, your choice.  The perfect introduction for those interested in starting Argentine tango under the guidance of world-renowned Argentine masters. This package includes 4 introductory classes, 4 days and 4 nights of dancing and Argentine cultural immersion, the Friday fashion show, the Saturday show and pre milonga cocktail party. Please note that there is a registration limit of 25 couples for this package.

If you prefer to buy only a class or two, please go to the ‘classes’ buttons and choose from the drop-down menu the number you with to buy. If you decide you liked it, you will be able to purchase the remainder of the package provided there is still space available in the class.

These 4 classes are easy to find: look for the word  BEGINNERS  in the schedule. Suggested attire for classes: dress for comfort and appearance; wear comfortable, clean, non marking  shoes.  Please do not bring your street shoes on the dance floor.
Your Beginner package comes with a complimentary shoe backpack, a notebook and a t-shirt.

 

 

MILONGA : Thursday – $25.00; Friday – $25.00; Saturday $30.00 (live music); Sunday 25.00; Afternoon Mixers: $10.00 each

 

 

SATURDAY SHOW: $35.00 at the door

 

WORKSHOPS: (group classes):  At the door:  $35.00 CAD/ class / person; no discounts.

 

PRIVATE CLASSES:  are offered only for those who take a minimum of 2 group classes in the festival.

 

STUDENT DISCOUNTS: are offered to full time students ( age 29 or younger) with valid student ID. If you are a full time student please contact us and have your ID with you.

 

For registration the following methods of payment are accepted: ONLINE REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED.

. on site: cash, debit, credit (Visa, MC, Discovery; please note, NO American Express)

Registration documentation is not mailed, it will be available for pick up on site. Registration is not transferable.

 

CANCELLATION & REFUND

Full refund is accepted until September 1st, 2016, less processing fees.

50% refund is accepted until September 25th, 2016, less processing fees.

No refund after September 25th, 2016.

Please note that the Festival organizers are not responsible for last minute cancellation of any artist, should one occur.

ACCOMMODATION

coast_plazahotelsuiteslogo_vert_rgb2Coast Plaza Hotel & Suites

1763 Comox Street, Vancouver

La Garufa Guest Special Rates available for a limited time!

West End hotel near English Bay, seawall 

Stay in a quintessential Vancouver location – the vibrant West End, the real heart of Vancouver. This 35-story moderate first class hotel is on Denman Street and 3 blocks from the English Bay seawall trail and very close to world famous Stanley Park. The hotel is connected to the Denman Place Mall with grocery and drug store for any basics you may need.

Indoor pool, health club

If walking around Stanley Park isn’t enough of a workout, guests can stay fit at the hotel’s 50-foot indoor pool and the adjoining health club’s squash courts and yoga studio.

Balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi

Coast Plaza Hotel & Suite’s 199 apartment-size guestrooms offer step-out balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows plus desks, refrigerator and complimentary wireless Internet access.

La Garufa Guest Special Rate 

Available for a limited time and subject to availability – book by September 6!

starting at $129* CAD (approx. $99 USD) for Comfort Double Room with Two Double Beds Room

(Amenities: mini-fridge, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron & ironing board)

*plus applicable hotel taxes of approx. 15%

  • 199 rooms and suites
  • Free WiFi

Booking Website to make your reservation:

MAKE YOUR RESERVATION HERE!

Or call toll free: 1.800.716.6199

International: +800.800.26278

and quote this booking code to get the special La Garufa Guest rate. 

EVENT SPONSORS

Want to become a sponsor?

Born in the streets and growing to have a unique history with alternating phases of magnificence and ostracism, the Argentine Tango was recently declared by UNESCO Cultural Patrimony for Humanity. In this spirit we united our efforts to bring here the most representative talents of this genre. These artists have left a permanent mark in the history of tango and it is a privilege to have them in Vancouver.

We believe that La Garufa is a great opportunity to support art and its cultural diversity in a country and city which pride themselves for embracing multiculturalism. We hope that our mission statement available on the website conveys the strong message we seek to deliver.

If you think that this festival is something you would like to support, we would be happy to hear from you.




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VENDORS

TangoAura   turqoiseshoes   Tangojewelry    beyond-a-card   Tango books

TESTIMONIALS

“Congratulations once again for an amazing festival ! Excellent venue, excellent organizing and the instructors were just amazing – not only very good at what they were showing but very nice, approachable and caring people. I loved the performances – great dancers, it was very professional organized, the costumes, the music. And the band – what can I say ? I did feel like I am in Buenos Aires. Everything showed that you put lots of work and thought into it: the tickets, the merchandise, the volunteers. Congratulations ! I hope it is just the first one, I really hope that we will have another one next year – and I would really like to see the same performers/instructors – they were amazing !”
Carmen Costea

 

“THANK YOU, Monica!!! what a great, fantastic festival with amazing performers, Monica! it was over way too fast! i am so very happy and grateful!”
Elizabeth Hafeli

 

“Loved to be here….THANK YOU Monica and Angel  and all the volunteers,Dj’s, maestros, and VOLUNTEERS….;) World Wide Dance Shoes thanks you early…Hope to see you next year…;)”
Hasan Seremet

 

“Thanks Monica. You rock. It was awesome.”
Jud Martell

 

“It was a wonderful Tango Festival with wonderful performers! thank you!”
– Lena Cabrera

 

“Wow… what a fantastic weekend of magnificent tango. Listened to beautiful music, watched amazing performances, learned so much and made new friends! Thanks Monica Monty!!!”
– Cathy Knowlton –

 

“Good going good lady! People really, really appreciate what you do. You make a difference in people’s lives and you can see it on their faces and feel it through their bodies.”

James Dean Waryck

 

Enjoyed La Garufa festival a lot! all the teachers were great, I hope I will remember the cool combinations I’ve learnt… Sexteto Milonguero music was FABULOUS!!! Performances impressive!.. Lorena Bouzas’ DJ-ing was great! (Friday night was my fav). Big thanks to all the partners I had fun dancing with at the festival, and special thanks to Angel & Ruben Veliz…Monica, Angel, the festival was a treat!

Tatiana Balashova

 

“I am getting a helmet cam so I can dance, photograph and video at the same time. It was a very special evening, thank you Monica for dreaming BIG, you made me love Galas, I didn’t want to do it …… :-)”

Vincent Lam

 

“Excellent Festival! You have thought of everything! Well done! :)”

Cheryl Clark

 

“We didn’t get a chance to speak with you last night.  Congratulations on the success of La Garufa!  The couples were excellent teachers and performers and the band was great!  We hope you continue to bring such genuine talent to Vancouver.  This experience has given us a glimpse into the rich world of Argentine Tango that we would like to continuously explore. Thank you!”
Winston & Nadine

 

“What a great festival La Garufa was. Thank you Monica for making it happen.”
Pipa Crisp

 

“Congratulations to Monica, Angel and Libertango for an excellent La Garufa Tango Festival!”
Cheryl Clark

 

“Exhausting and wonderful time at La Garufa International Tango Festival!
The haiku of the last day:
Voices cease outside.
A shoe strap mark around the ankle.
Bandoneon sleeps.”
Marina Molodovskaya

 

“Hermoso Festival de Tango en Vancouver !! Que linda energia ayer en el Show !!! Hermosa Gente!!”
Gisela Natoli

 

“Really happy after a wonderful tango festival with lots of dancing!”
Elizabeth Hafeli

 

“Great Argentine contribution”
Cristian Videla

 

“Had a Wonderful time at La Garufa in Vanocuver this weekend. Amazing performances, great dancing and a live performance by Sexteto Milonguero. perfecto.”
Jamila M Williams

 

“Dear Monica, thank you for your endeavoring in creating/ financing / organizing and hosting the La Garufa tango festival. What a treat to the tango community last weekend! We appreciate your vision, class and perseverance… Thank you! With love, Steven and Joanna”

 

“Ditto Steven & Joanna’s comments and more specifically, the DJ workshops, DJs, sextet and the Veliz couple were simply excellent. Kudos & much appreciation for your efforts ♥”
Sally Osborne

 

“Monica … we love you!! :-)”
James Dean Waryk

 

“Big thank you Monica for the festival. Karmi and I enjoyed it a lot and learned a lot from the wonderful teachers. Abrazos.”
Avital Belkin

 

“Thank you for a fantastic festival!”
Jeannette Somlak Pedersen

 

“Thank you Monica for the excellent festival organization ! Amazing event !! Everything was at a high level! I hope you’re satisfied it.”
Elena Uretskaya

 

“Monica, Muchas gracias! I really enjoyed myself and learned a lot during the festival. It is always inspiring to be around teachers and dancers from other cities. I was so exhausted after the all night milonga and early class that I fell asleep early on the night. I regret that I missed the last milonga. Look forward to the next one.”
Eduardo Azmitia

 

“Dear Monica, the festival was very enjoyable! my special thanks for bringing Sexteto Milonguero. abrazos T”
Tatiana Balashova

 

“I am still in a tango daze …thank you so much for giving us La Garufa. It was a wonderful, I didn’t want it to end. The zamba performance by Ruben & Sabrina was beautiful and dancing to Sexteto Milonguero was fabulous.
Big XO to you – tangowoman!”
Adrienne Horton

 

“Thanks Monica, dear! What a treat for the tango community! You dedication, passion and courage are incredible and contagious. Looking forward to the future La Garufa endeavors! love, Marina”
Marina Molodovskaya

 

“Thank you Monica ! you really brought quality to Vancouver ! Loved it !”
Michael De Ruyter

 

“it took courage, hard work, risks, and love to do this Monica! Glad to be part of it! thank you!!!”
Maria Carbonetti

 

“Monica, that was an incredible festival. Thank you so much for bringing such exceptional dancers to Vancouver. Sexteto Milongera was a dream! I love them!!! Muchisimo gracias!!!”
Natasha Lewis

 

“Excellent work, dear Monica! You put your energy, your time, and your heart into this project, and it has been a tremendous success! Bravo!”
Barbara Wood

 

“Dear Monica,
All the comments and photos of La Garufa have made me miss my tango community more fiercely than ever. It is abundantly clear that the festival was put together with boundless love and enthusiasm and generosity. I thought you should know that even though I was unable to take part (because of ongoing health challenges), I am nonetheless deeply touched by what you’ve accomplished. You are a gift to our community.
Love, Sandra.”
Sandra Vander Schaaf

 

Good Day.
I thoroughly enjoyed the milonga last night.   Congratulations to you and all your staff and volunteers.
I would like to submit an idea, if I may, regarding your next Libertango…
Add a demonstration couple from Helsinki, Finland.
On the surface this may sound crazy but Tango is hugely popular in Finland.   But it is not Arg. Tango, International Tango, or American style tango.  It is ‘Finnish Tango’.
About 2 years ago I saw a 20 minute video article on Finnish Tango on the CBS program 60 Minutes.
And, Finnish Tango is clearly Tango.  The Finns dance their own Tango to the same tango music that you and I dance to.  But it is different.
I think that if you go to YouTube and enter ‘Finnish Tango’  there may be some examples for you to look at.
Cheers!

– Neil MacIvor

Neil MacIvor
Richmond, BC

Tango Masters

Sabrina & Ruben Veliz

EVENT

October 6, 2016

St. Mary's Ukranian Centre
3150 Ash Street
Vancouver, BC

October 7, 8, 9, 2016

Hellenic Community Centre
4500 Arbutus Street
Vancouver, BC

CONTACT

Our Office

4388 Arbutus Street
Vancouver, BC
V6J 4A2,Canada

Contact Information

info@lagarufa.com

+1-604.809-3410