Days till we dance:
Queen City Tango Marathon
January 14th-18th, 2027
Passes are $225 per person and includes the Chacarera class, a long weekend full of dancing, and fun! After December 31st, the Marathon pass price will increase to $275 per person for the weekend.
Please use this link for our special event rate of $151 per night. This rate is good for 2 days prior & one day after the festival if you wish to lengthen your visit to Charlotte.
***You must reserve a room before January 7th in order to secure a discounted rate!***
Location
Hilton Charlotte University Place
Click here to access exclusive deals on your hotel rate for the event.
Discounted room rates only apply to reservations made before January 7th!
8629 J. M. Keynes Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262, United States
Visiting Instructors
*****
Cristian Bravo & Anna Leon
Meet Cristian Bravo
At just 10 years old, Cristian's father took him to the house of the only dancer and teacher in the Viedma, Patagonia, where, in a 6’x6’ room, he took his first tango steps.
He received the National Endowment for the Arts scholarship for tango so he moved to Buenos Aires, where he was immediately incorporated into the Tango X 2 Company, of Miguel Angel Zotto.
Over his 35 year tango journey, Cristian has placed and won championships, danced in countless shows, taught tango salon, stage, and master classes all over the world and in prominent schools in Buenos Aires. He is a member of the CID/UNESCO International Dance Council as well as a member of the association of teachers and choreographers of Argentine tango (AMBCTA).
Meet Anna León
Anna León grew up in Los Angeles listening to tango music at her grandparents’ asados. After college, she deferred her career in interior design for her new-found love of specifically teaching tango, so she split her time between touring the US and living in Buenos Aires, finally settling down in Richmond in 2017. Anna blends elements of golden era tango teaching techniques with more contemporary views of the lead and follow relationship. While teaching her students to lead and follow from the get go, she also discusses the iconic gender roles that existed in Buenos Aires in the golden era of tango. With this knowledge her students can dance the tango with a rich Argentine accent.
Anna studied under many teachers, however her main maestros were Daniel Trenner, Cecilia Garcia, and Julio Balmaceda. She has taught and performed in cities across North America from Los Angeles to Montreal. Her tango clothing line, Forever Ochos, made way for her tango shoe line, which is still up and running called, Anna León Buenos Aires.
When Anna and Cristian met, late in 2022, they realized they shared the same tango dream. They placed 1st in Vals and 2nd in Milonga at ATUSA 2023 and decided to open their own school, Virginia Tango. Now they are dedicated to growing the tango community full time in Virginia. They teach five levels of tango classes four days a week, they have weekly practicas, and a monthly milonga all at their very own dance studio.
*****
Jae Youn
Jae Youn is a world-renowned dancer, teacher, and DJ of Argentine Tango and folklore Chacarera. Jae Youn achieved a historic milestone by placing Second in the Milonga International category at the 2021 European Tango Cup with partner Yatma Diallo – the only American to have ever placed in the competition's history.
With invitations to teach in esteemed locations such as Buenos Aires, Milan, and numerous cities across the US. Her approach to tango emphasizes the harmonious blend of physical and mental connections, musicality, and expressive communication.
Jae's passion for tango extends beyond technique, embracing the dance as a powerful medium for self-expression, connection, and immersion in the music and ambient energy of the social tango experience.
Available for private lessons
Contact Jae@tangoutopia.com to learn more
*****
Daniel Arredondo
Born in San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina, Daniel Arredondo is a passionate artist whose life is devoted to the rhythm of tango and the soul of Argentine culture. Widely credited with introducing authentic Argentine tango to Charlotte, NC in 2000, Daniel has become a cornerstone of the local and regional tango community.
As a DJ, Daniel brings the same depth and sensitivity to his musical selections, curating unforgettable milongas at major tango events nationwide. His sets are known for their dynamic flow, cultural authenticity, and ability to keep dancers engaged and inspired on the dance floor all night long. In 2024, Daniel was honored with the “Con A de Arte” Award by the Latin American Coalition for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of Argentine arts in North Carolina.
Whether on stage, in the classroom, or behind the DJ booth, Daniel Arredondo embodies the spirit of Argentine dance—elegant, expressive, and deeply human.
*****
Vania Rey
Vania embarked on her tango-teaching journey in 2002 in Berlin, Germany. After being invited to teach in New York City in 2005, she decided to make North America her new base. Since that time, Vania has traveled to teach and DJ tango in Buenos Aires, and all over North America and Europe.
Vania is highly respected and almost equally accomplished as both leader and follower. Her greatest strengths as both a dancer and a teacher are her versatility and range, traits gleaned and continually developed on her own tango journey, through years of experience dancing and teaching a wide variety of styles - from Nuevo to Milonguero.
She is fluent and teaches in four languages (English, Spanish, German, Bulgarian), and as an instructor, Vania emphasizes fine-tuning the fundamentals, and encourages the sharing of more nuanced communication as a path for deeper connection.
*****
Eric Heleno & Julia Heleno
Tango enthusiasts from a young age we have accumulated a vast experience in dancing and teaching over the last 20 years. Professionally trained in Buenos Aires our approach is based on five pillars of connection :
1. Postural tonicity to improve floor connection and promote healthy movement
2. A dense and stable shape of the embrace
3. A perpetual exchange of energy from the
reciprocated motion of both leader and follower
4. Musicality rooted in tango, vals and milonga
phrasing
5. An active visual projection of time and space
Growing up Julia was musically trained to sing and play piano. Eric has a professional background in music composition and performance as well as sound engineering spanning 25 years. He conducts regular workshops on tango music history and sound for DJs, dancers and organisers of tango events.
*****
Chantal Forgues
CHANTAL FORGUES, from Miami, Florida , USA. Argentine tango dancer, teacher, organizer and DJ for now 15 years. Background dance training from different Argentinian masters as well as classical dance and music.
Co host/teacher/dj at one of the largest milongas in South Florida, Las Pebetas Milonga. Ex co organizer of Tangocho Milonga and Guacha Milonga in Miami. She is an experienced TDJ who has worked in USA, South America, Asia, Europe, Africa, etc., in festivals, marathon and milongas.
Greatly appreciated by the Miami tango community as a graceful organizer, energetic dancer and eclectic DJ. Also known for her women technique teaching, and organic approach to tango.
Classes
Sound Engineering Workshops by Eric Heleno
Target audience
These workshops are intended for DJs, organizers, musicians and dancers with a keen interest in the sound of Argentinian tango music. From identifying a good transfer or a problem in the recording, to investigating the technical challenges from each set of playback circumstances, to understanding options and managing expectations in a live environment, to assessing and optimizing the overall process.
Format / Method
Each workshop will follow the three-act structure model used in narrative fiction that divides a story into three parts, often called the Setup, the Confrontation, and the Resolution. It has been described in different ways by Aelius Donatus (maybe an old relative of Donato :-)) in the fourth century A.D. I have found this approach to structure and stimulate information retention while being both interactive and playful.
The Setup will be a presentation of the qualities, attributes and inner-workings of sound, sound systems or DJ equipment systems as well as the challenges they pose.
The Confrontation introduces distinctive and commonly found case-studies observed in live tango events from a dancer, DJ and sound engineering perspective.
The Resolution aims to find and present suitable solutions to each set of circumstances in an interactive Q&A format.
Schedule
| Queen City Tango Marathon, 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, Jan. 14, 2027 | 7:00p- 9:00p | Check In at Registration in the University Ballroom |
| 9:00p- 1:00a | Welcome Milonga w/DJ Vania Rey | |
| 1:00a- 5:00a | Late Night Milonga w/DJ Michael Plaks | |
| Friday, Jan. 15, 2027 | 11:00a- 1:00p | Sound Engineering Workshop, Walden Ballroom |
| 11:30a- 12:30p | Chacarera, University Ballroom | |
| 1:00p- 5:00p | Afternoon Milonga w/ Elizabeth Brooks | |
| 8:00p- 9:00p | Hospitality dance hour | |
| 8:00p- 12:00a | Evening Vinyl Milonga w/DJ Rosita Lagos | |
| 12:00a- 4:00a | Late Night Milonga w/DJ Rob Montango | |
| Saturday, Jan. 16, 2027 | 11:00a- 1:00p | Sound Engineering Workshop, Walden Ballroom |
| 11:30a- 12:30p | Chacarera, University Ballroom | |
| 1:00p- 5:00p | Alternative Milonga w/DJ Terry Lewis | |
| 9:00p- 12:00a | Evening Milonga w/DJ Eric Heleno*Theme is Black and White* | |
| 12:00a- 1:00a | Special Guest - Orquesta "Meridian Tango" | |
| 12:00a- 4:00a | Late Night Milonga w/DJ Daniel Arredondo | |
| Sunday, Jan. 17, 2027 | 11:00a- 12:30p | Yoga with Anna Bello |
| 11:00a- 1:00p | Sound Engineering Workshop, Walden Ballroom | |
| 1:00p- 5:00p | Milonga w/DJ Jae Youn | |
| 9:00p- 1:00a | Evening Milonga w/DJ Mark Mindel | |
| 1:00a- 5:00a | Late Night Milonga w/DJ Chantal Forgues | |
| Monday, Jan. 18, 2027 | 12:00a- 4:00p | Farewell Milonga w/DJ John Singletary |
Special Guest - Orquesta "Meridian Tango"
Meridian Tango Group: A Fusion of Talent and Passion
At the helm of this musical journey is Yulia Zhukof, whose career epitomizes dedication and artistry. Originating from Saint Petersburg, Russia, Yulia's musical odyssey began at the tender age of six, igniting a lifelong love affair with music. Her prowess on the cello has graced stages across continents, earning her accolades and admiration worldwide. However, it was during her tenure at Duquesne University's Mary Pappert School of Music that Yulia's artistic trajectory took a transformative turn. Introduced to the mesmerizing world of Argentine Tango, she embarked on a new chapter, infusing her classical training with the passion and rhythm of this captivating dance form.
Joining Yulia is Viktor Kosh, a distinguished clarinetist hailing from Ukraine. With a Doctor of Arts degree in clarinet performance from the Prokofiev Donetsk Music Academy, Viktor's expertise has reverberated through theaters and concert halls across the globe. From his tenure as the principal clarinetist in Donetsk to his ventures in China, Viktor's musical journey brings depth and richness to the Meridian Tango Group.
Complementing Viktor's melodic prowess is Lana Kosh, a Ukrainian pianist whose virtuosity knows no bounds. With a Doctor of Art and Master in Music Degree in Piano Performance from the Prokofiev Music Academy, Lana's career has been studded with awards and accolades. From her role as concertmaster in academic singing to her tenure in China's bustling music scene, Lana's passion for piano shines through in every note.
Rounding out the ensemble is Javier Sanchez, a master of the bandoneón with roots deeply entrenched in the heart of Buenos Aires. With over three decades of experience, Javier brings the soul and rhythm of Argentina to the forefront. From his tenure with renowned tango orchestras to his solo recitals in the Carolinas, Javier's musical prowess adds depth and authenticity to the Meridian Tango Group.
Together, these four virtuosos unite under the banner of the Meridian Tango Group, weaving a tapestry of sound and movement that transcends borders and captivates audiences worldwide. With unwavering dedication, consummate artistry, and a shared passion for Tango, they continue to push the boundaries of musical expression, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and dance.
DJs
*****
Vania Rey
Vania began DJing tango in 2008 in NYC, and over the years she has witnessed a constant evolution both in her musical preferences and in her DJ style. A tango teacher since 2002, her greatest strength as a DJ has been to stay conscious of that development, because it permits her to relate to and play for dancers with wide spread of experience and skill levels. Aside from hosting/DJing a monthly milonga in Austin, TX, she travels regularly to teach and DJ tango around the world, thus far having had the opportunity to play for dancers in over 50 cities on 3 continents, including in Buenos Aires.
*****
Michael Plaks
Why did I start DJ-ing post-Covid? We were all itching to resume dancing, but we wanted more inspiring music. So I decided to play the tandas my friends actually wanted to dance to.
My method remains simple. If I listen to a particular tango while sitting at my desk, and my feet start moving on their own - it goes on my playlist. And I agree that classics are classics for a reason, and roads less traveled are sometimes less traveled for a reason.
I prefer what I consider scenic routes, both in travel and in music. Allow me to invite you to tango travel with me.
*****
Elizabeth Brooks
Elizabeth started dancing Tango in Los Angeles before moving to NC. Nobody warned her what she was in for. After her first milonga, she couldn’t get some of the songs out of her head. They have stayed there ever since. Elizabeth, who is a sound therapist, was naturally drawn to crafting tandas, deepening her technical knowledge of sound, and thinking about how music can shape a memorable and positive experience on the dance floor.
In her short career, she has Djeded in multiple states and events across the US and is fortunate to have been inspired and supported by so many talented dancers and DJ’s along the way. Elizabeth loves reminding people that tango is fun and friendly, but please note that in-between tandas while Djing is not a time to test that.
*****
Rosita Lagos
An Argentine tango DJ for nearly a decade, Rosita Lagos-Diaz plays at milongas, marathons, encuentros, and festivals across France, Europe, and the United States.
She has performed at renowned events such as the Lyon Tango Festival, the Mediterranean Summer Tango Festival in Poreč, Soñemos and Che Che in Zagreb, Peace and Love in Noci, Villa Giacomelli in Udine Cincoh in Boston, and Royal Embrace in London, among others.
Whether using vinyl or a computer, she favors Golden Age tangos and enjoys exploring their full emotional range. Highly attuned to the energy of the dance floor and the comfort of the dancers, she crafts her tandas with sensitivity, striving above all to foster a harmonious ronda.
*****
Daniel Arredondo
Born in San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina, Daniel Arredondo is a passionate artist whose life is devoted to the rhythm of tango and the soul of Argentine culture. Widely credited with introducing authentic Argentine tango to Charlotte, NC in 2000, Daniel has become a cornerstone of the local and regional tango community.
As a DJ, Daniel brings the same depth and sensitivity to his musical selections, curating unforgettable milongas at major tango events nationwide. His sets are known for their dynamic flow, cultural authenticity, and ability to keep dancers engaged and inspired on the dance floor all night long. In 2024, Daniel was honored with the “Con A de Arte” Award by the Latin American Coalition for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of Argentine arts in North Carolina.
Whether on stage, in the classroom, or behind the DJ booth, Daniel Arredondo embodies the spirit of Argentine dance—elegant, expressive, and deeply human.
*****
Terry Lewis
Friends, Romans, tangueros, lend me your ears; I come to play awesome traditional music in addition to outstanding alternative music!
50% traditional music
50% alternative music
100% exciting, danceable, rhythmic, and romantic music!!!
It’s always exhilarating to travel from Queens, New York, to the Queen City Tango Marathon. I’ve had the honor of attending or DJing this event for several years now. Each experience has been better than the last!
I am always blown away by the QCTM dancers and their ability to radiate energy through all types of rhythms. Even the people who are not on the dance floor are grooving to the music. It’s due in large part to the tremendous hosts.
The friendly atmosphere that Mark and Kim have created, the contributions of a variety of talented DJs, and the musicality and enthusiasm of the tangueros who take part make for loads of fun. I hope you will come for a good time and some great dances. See you on the dance floor... Eso!
*****
Eric Heleno
Eric started DJing and begun training as a sound engineer 26 years ago, gaining valuable experience from performing, recording and teaching across all musical genres. For the last 12 years Eric has transitioned all of his professional activities into tango related events, DJing and sound engineering at marathons, encuentros and festivals in over 40 countries across Europe, America and the middle- East.
In the last 7 years he has evolved as a performing dancer and teacher, gaining in the process a greater insight into the wonders of tango arrangements and phrasing.
Tango feels like poetry in motion, it is engaging yet remains elusive until all the layers have been peeled off and the walls have crumbled. It is complex yet accessible through discipline and a shared set of figures, patterns and conventions. It is intoxicating yet wholesome when driven by values of beauty, goodness and growth.
Every milonga feels like a new story unfolding with and within the music, and every dancer a character in that story, like every good story it is written in the now, through careful, studied and opportune selection of each tanda, to reflect every character and nurture every dialogue. As Nietzsche said : “In every Now, being begins”
*****
Rob Montango
Rob Montango began his journey in movement as a career martial artist for over 30 years before discovering dance in 2006. What began as curiosity became devotion — he shifted his entire life toward the study of the dance, immersing himself in its music, history, and culture with the discipline of a lifelong athlete.
He has since trained extensively across the United States and Europe with master teachers, traveling constantly to refine both his dancing and his understanding of tango’s musical legacy.
As a DJ, Rob has headlined major festivals throughout the United States, Eastern Europe, and Asia. His sets are known for their emotional architecture — a blend of elegant Golden Age classics, powerful modern orchestras, and a distinctive alt-tango palette that he curates with the ear of a true audiophile. Whether playing a traditional salón or an alternative marathon, Rob crafts an atmosphere designed for deep connection, grounded energy, and unforgettable dances.
His mission is simple: to share music that inspires dancers, honors tradition, elevates community, and reveals the soul of tango — one tanda at a time.
*****
Jae Youn
Jae is the founder of Tango Utopia in the greater Raleigh/Durham area. She is recognized as one of the premier teachers, dancers and DJ’s as well as the organizer of the monthly Milonga Utopia and the weekly practicas.
As a DJ, Jae loves the challenge of keeping dancers on the floor to the very last tanda. Her sensitivity to the energy of a milonga influences her music selection. Her music library is focused on the traditional masters and this is also reflected in her musical choices. She has been invited to DJ at festivals, milongas, marathons and encuentros around the US and Europe.
*****
Mark Mindel
My Tango journey began in 2011 when I first heard the music at a friends’ house. The Golden Era music had me from the start, and was what actually what drew me into tango. I began Djing our own small milongas & local practica’s in 2015. Since that time, the love of tango music has lead to collaboration with Tango Tunes – Christian Xello, a respectable 6th place overall in the 2019 Remolino Tango DJ competition, Tango Celebration in Bruges Belgium, Maja and Marko workshop weekend in Florida ,San Miguel Tango Festival Mexico, the Portland Tango Festival, Milonga Del Barrio in New York, and many tango events throughout the US and Southeast. I enjoy playing music that beckons dancers to the floor tanda after tanda, and I look forward to seeing & feeling the flow of energy within a milonga and tango weekend. It is a beautiful thing to share this love of tango music.
*****
Chantal Forgues
CHANTAL FORGUES, from Miami, Florida , USA. Argentine tango dancer, teacher, organizer and DJ for now 15 years. Background dance training from different Argentinian masters as well as classical dance and music. Co host/teacher/dj at one of the largest milongas in South Florida, Las Pebetas Milonga. Ex co organizer of Tangocho Milonga and Guacha Milonga in Miami. She is an experienced TDJ who has worked in USA, South America, Asia, Europe, Africa, etc., in festivals, marathon and milongas. Greatly appreciated by the Miami tango community as a graceful organizer, energetic dancer and eclectic DJ. Also known for her women technique teaching , and organic approach to tango
*****
John Singletary
John Singletary, native of Durham, North Carolina, welcomes all levels of dancers to his milongas and practicas, filled with classic tandas, thematic cortinas, and fun! His expertise transcends music mixing: John is a connoisseur of the tango experience, with over 18 years of dancing tango under his belt, he brings a depth of understanding to the art of crafting the perfect milonga atmosphere. Having navigated countless dance floors and embraced the nuances of this captivating dance, he has an intuitive grasp of what moves the soul and fills the pista.
His journey through tango began almost two decades ago, and in that time, he has immersed himself in every facet of the dance. From the intimate embrace of the traditional milonga to the deep sounds of modern and nuevo tango, his extensive experience informs every selection he makes. His knowledge of the subtle interplay between music and movement allows him to create a soundscape that resonates with both seasoned dancers and newcomers alike.
In addition to DJing, John has helped many enter tango by advocating for local and regional tango events by performing, teaching, and talking about the diverse tango community. He has demonstrated non-verbal communication for TEDx, been on stage with other community tango leaders for the International Festival and other performances, and hosts many visiting instructors and dancers. He also works with dancers of many genres throughout NC as a certified massage therapist, helping reclaim movement and lessen pain through specialized massage therapy.
John's mustache speaks for itself
Vendors
*****
Simon Perra-Jones
TangoTana is the exclusive distributor of the superb Entonces, Made in Italy. Marvelously crafted for shock absorption Entonces T-Shoes are stunning and will keep your feet happy tanda after tanda. The shoes come in narrow, regular, wide, and all heel heights. Simona Perra-Jones will be in the house with the new beautiful creations, stunning practice shoes, boots, and men’s shoes. She will help you find your perfect fit.
Tangotana.com
simona@tangotana.com
*****
Natalia Kansburg- Ambiente
One of a kind clothes designed for dancers by dancer!
At the heart of Ambiente’s mission lies the concept of repurposing the discarded, damaged, and unwearable garments and fabric remnants as well as vintage finds to create a line of classic style clothing that is unique and environmentally friendly. “Reimagine, Recycle, Reuse” has become the motto of Ambiente, which means “environment” in Spanish.
Natalia uses her sewing and design skills combined with her love and knowledge of vintage fashion to create a line of versatile dance wear that is flattering to all shapes and sizes. As an experienced stylist she can find something in her collection that will accentuate the innate beauty of every one of her clients.
In addition to her stock collection, she specializes in custom designs and alterations.
*****
Winged Lion Jewelery
Natalia Moroz and Sergey Zhiboedov met and began their creative collaboration while studying at the Institute of Fine Arts (Tashkent, Uzbekistan). After moving to the US in 1995, Sergey learned jewelry model making and began working at New York City’s Diamond District. Eventually settling in Charlotte, NC, Sergey and Natalia started designing and making jewelry inspired by art, history, and nature. At the marathon, they’ll present a collection of beautiful pendants, earrings, rings, and accessories made of precious metals and genuine gemstones.
Etsy shop: etsy.com/shop/wingedlion
Website: szjewelrydesign.com/
Instagram: instagram.com/wingedlionjewelry/
*****
Mariposa Tango Boutique – Alla Kotler
Mariposa Tango Boutique is here to bring exclusive designs of current tango fashion direct from Buenos Aires, Argentina. All the clothes are hand made by the best artisans of their trade.
Many are one of a kind designs and prints. We collaborate with the hottest tango fashion designers to create clothing lines that are fit for all ages and body types. We also proudly bring you a wide selection of some of the most comfortable and high-quality tango shoes from around the world.
With our hands on the pulse of tango fashion trends in Buenos Aires and the specific needs of our customers in North America and around the globe, we’ve created a unique tango shopping experience that will meet all your needs and desires.
*****
Anna Bello – AB Thai Bodywork
AB Thai Bodywork honors Northern Style Thai traditions of “Nuad Bo-Rarn” that use a slow, gentle approach incorporating deep compression, stretching, rocking, tapping, and many other techniques to relax and realign the fascial tissue layer of the body.
Thai bodywork is often associated with structural massage styles such as sports and deep tissue, but is extremely relaxing and meditative, making it accessible to all. The client is fully clothed in loose, warm clothing that allows the bodyworker to move the client around freely on a mat on the floor.
Anna has been studying Thai bodywork for 10 years. She recently returned from Chiang Mai, Thailand where she studied for 2 months. It was her second visit. AB Thai Bodywork is offering Thai bodywork sessions and yoga at QCTM 2027.
NC LMBT #11902
SC LMT #8866
@abeethaibodywork
*****
Kayla Broom- Massage
Kayla began her Argentine tango studies in 2005 at the age of 10. While simultaneously training in other genres such as ballet, jazz, and various Latin dances, she quickly found her passion within tango. Throughout her career, Kayla has had the pleasure of teaching and performing in many different milongas, festivals, marathons, private events and concerts along the East Coast with various outstanding partners. Some of these events include Latino Americano Festival of Charlotte, Spoleto Tango Festival, Pittsburgh Tango Marathon, Columbia Tango Marathon, XV Gala 2022, Festival Colombia Internacional 2022, What A Wonderful World with Ensemble Eclectica, Charlotte International Arts Festival, Queen City Tango Marathon and many more.
Kayla is based in Charlotte, NC sharing her passion for this beautiful dance through classes, workshops, private lessons, various events and performances. For the social tango dancer, she encourages adaptive, sensitive, mindful techniques to be used within the embrace and on the dance floor.
*****
Lorena Diez - SurReal
Lorena Diez is an Argentine-born interdisciplinary artist, tango dancer, DJ, organizer, and fashion designer who has been an advocate for Miami’s tango community since 2008. She is the co-founder and organizer of Open Air Tango on Lincoln Road and Las Pebetas Milonga, two well-established Miami tango milongas.
In 2010, Lorena founded Sur-Real Designs, now presented through the lens of SurReal Tango, bringing together her passion for art, fashion, and tango. Her designs are handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, offering timeless, one-of-a-kind pieces with a focus on movement, versatility, comfort, and glam.
Inspired by soft textures, modern colors, and distinctive patterns, Lorena creates designs that reflect an inclusive approach to tango fashion for dancers of diverse generations, body types, and personal styles who want to express themselves freely without compromising on style. She also offers custom-made designs, working closely with each client to achieve the perfect fit and personal style.
Her collections are currently available for purchase at selected tango festivals and events, as well as by appointment at her atelier in North Miami Beach.
Social Media & Contact information:
Instagram:
@lorediez_tango
@sur_real_tango
@las_pebetas_milonga
@open_air_tango
Facebook:
Facebook.com/loredieztango
Facebook.com/sur.real.tango
Photographers
*****
Ali Imran
Ali is a tango dancer, photographer (Media Luz Photography), and DJ based in Chicago. His passion for tango stems from the beauty and elegance of its music and movement, which he continues to explore through his artistic work.
With nearly a decade of experience in tango photography, Ali has traveled across the country to capture the soul of the dance. Specializing in memorializing the essence of each moment, he brings a unique perspective to tango photography that showcases both the elegance and emotion of the dancers.
As a DJ, Ali is the proud winner of the 2024 International cincOH DJ Competition. He has spun at renowned tango events, including the Windy City Tango Festival, Denver Tango Festival, and Cleveland Tango Marathon, among others. With a deep passion for traditional tango music—ranging from the gems of the old guard to the golden age of tango—Ali’s musical selections help dancers connect with the sound, the floor, and one another, creating a seamless dance experience.
About Your Hosts
Kim’s professional life has been in banking and accounting, while Mark works in TV, films and theatre in props construction.
Personal interests outside of tango. Kim is an avid gardener and collector of all plants. She lives in her garden and only sleeps in the house. Mark is a designer and builder of many things. When an opportunity arose, Mark met the challenge and designed and built their custom and portable tango dance floor. His creativity did not stop there, Mark also built a custom sound system that includes speakers with superior sound.
Tango is truly a family affair with their children and grandchildren helping at the Queen City Tango Marathon and Queen City Tango Festival. Mark and Kim also strive to create a place where all who come to the marathon and festival feel welcome. Everyone can come to dance and relax in a safe environment, knowing that all aspects of the weekend have been considered from the convenience and price points of the hotel to the late-night snacks. With every Queen City Tango Marathon and Festival we continue to add new touches. We strive to bring the best dance instructors and dj’s from around the US and the globe.
Kim and I hope that you will consider joining the Queen City Tango Family. See you on the dance floor! Big Hugs,
Register
Waiver and Release
Cancellation/Refund Policy
No refunds will be issued after December 31st. On January 1st the price of a pass will increase by $50, totaling $275.
By clicking the button below and going to the purchase page, I hereby acknowledge and agree to all of the above terms relating to QCTM and its organizers.