Newman Tango Two-Step

(1914)



Contemporary Description

This is an easy, 32-count tango sequence described by Albert Newman of Philadelphia in 1914.


The Position

Tango Position and Closed Position, as illustrated below.


The Footwork

Part I - Promenade and Two-Step (8 counts): Promenade two steps forward in tango position, starting outside feet (1, 2), then two-step with first foot (forward-close-forward, 3-and-4). Repeat opposite, still traveling forward (5, 6, 7-and-8).

Part II - Rocking Turn (8 counts): Lead steps back left as the Follow steps forward right. Then the Lead rocks forward right, as the Follow rocks back left, turning 1/4 to the right. Repeat three more times, rotating one full turn in total.

Part III - Picture Poses (12 counts): Taking open two hands, step first foot to the side (1), cross second foot in front, dipping slightly onto it, while raising the leading hands high to reveal the couple through a picture frame pointed toward the center of the room (2), then replace first foot (3). Repeat opposite, crossing into a picture frame pointed toward the outside wall (4, 5, 6). Repeat it all (7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12).



Note: Although the picture pose arms are the only really unique aspect of this dance, Newman states that the crossing footwork can also be done while retaining closed position. Part IV - Walk Out (4 counts): Promenade four steps along LOD.


The Music

No music is specified, so any square tango tune of the era will work.

© 2016 Nick Enge


(Click to expand)

Historical Descriptions

Newman Tango Two-Step (Newman, Dances of To-Day, 1914, p. 131):





For more dance descriptions, see our three books on dancing:
The Book of Mixers: 100 Easy-Teach Dances for Getting Acquainted (2022) by Richard Powers and Nick & Melissa Enge,
Cross-Step Waltz: A Dancer's Guide (2019) by Richard Powers and Nick & Melissa Enge, and
Waltzing: A Manual for Dancing and Living (2013) by Richard Powers and Nick Enge.

For full-length teaching videos, visit: University of Dance.

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