[TANGO-L] competition

[Michael Figart II <michaelfigart @yahoo.com>]

Ola Listeros,



OK, maybe I'll open up a big can of worms here, but I'd like to hear
some opinions. I just learned that Metatango is holding a festival here
in Houston next April(?), and that this festival will host a
"competition", sending some "lucky" couple to the Argentine "Tango Dance
World Competition" in Buenos Aires next year.



What I want to know is how does ANYBODY justify having this sort of
competition in Argentine Tango? And it got me to thinking, is there a
way to have a good competition?? Yes, I think so, but only one way...get
as many dancers together as you can, and force everyone to dance with
everyone...... And then make the followers vote on their favorite
leader, and the leaders vote on their favorite follower! What do you
think? No judges allowed, and make everybody close their eyes!!!



But still, my main question, and one that I've not seen debated before,
is what does everyone think of these few  "competitions" that are held
every year???? I won't be shy here. My opinion is that there should
never be organized competition in Argentine Tango, and those that
participate have lessened themselves, cheapened the art, and compromised
their integrity tremendously by taking part in such spurious
undertakings.



Anxious to hear your views, and keeping an ear out for low-flying
bullets!!! But watch out! You're in Texas!!!!!!



Michael Figart II

Houston Texas

1110 Woodhill Rd

281-731-5237

1blk east of T C Jester, and 1blk south of 11th