Days till we dance:
Queen City Tango Festival
July 10th-14th, 2025
Passes are $215 per person and includes one class, a long weekend full of dancing, and fun! After June 30, the festival pass price will increase to $265 per person for the weekend.
One class is included with your pass, but additional classes can be purchased for $40 each.
Please use this link for our special event rate of $134 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 July 1st 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 July 1st!
8629 J. M. Keynes Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262, United States
Visiting Instructors
*****
Maja & Marko
We started dancing tango in Zagreb, Croatia in 2002 in a small group of enthusiasts curious about this “new” dance. Some five years later we began giving regular lessons at the Tango Argentino Zagreb dance school. Our first and most influential teachers were Pablo Rodríguez and Noelia Hurtado. Later we continued to study with Noelia and Carlitos Espinoza. We also studied with Federico Naveira and Inés Muzzoppapa, Bruno Tombari and Mariangeles Caamaño and Chicho Frumboli and Juana Sepúlveda, among others.
Since 2014 we are working with tango professionally, holding workshops and performing all over Europe (Amsterdam, Minsk, Florence, Karlsruhe, Genova, Budapest, L´Aquila, Freiburg, Treviso, Poreč, Mantova, Halle, Sevilla, Lisbon, Procida, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Reykjavik etc.). In 2018 we have started to work in North America, Asia and Australia.
*****
Stephanie & Fausto
Stephanie Fesneau comes from Paris, France and Fausto Carpino comes from Syracuse, Sicily. After an intense period of preparation, they begin to participate in various tango events as teachers. So far they have taught in more than 31 different countries and 115 cities. Their lessons are focused on how to propose oneself to the partner in a comfortable way within the embrace, based on logic and natural movements. They believe that connection, musicality and technique are the keys to fully appreciate the beauty of tango.
*****
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.
*****
Melina
Renowned for her ability to excel both as a leader and follower, Melina’s passion for teaching has led her on a journey across the Americas and Europe, where she draws from her diverse background in various movement disciplines to share her love for Argentine Tango. She also delves deep into the analysis of its various styles and techniques, exploring how they shape and influence each person’s dance.
Collaborating with international teachers, Melina has given workshops and stages around the globe, captivating audiences with her expertise and artistry.
Introduced as a dj in the local milongas of Montreal, Melina pierced the international and festival/marathon stage first in the USA, to eventually expand out to Europe. Her experience and versatility as a social dancer in both roles, as well as a professional teacher and performer, have made her very sensitive to the dancer’s and the ronda’s energy. She believes in a balance of flavors, keeping in mind the venue, the event, the time of day and the dancers.
Classes
Vania and Melina
*****
Class 1: Small Spaces Classics (Friday)
While big movements in Tango can feel exhilarating, the reality is that crowded dance floors often don’t permit them. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to stay creative, playful, and elegant in our movements, even when working with limited space!
*****
Class 2: Giradas and Their Many Possibilities (Friday)
While pivoting on one leg is common in Tango, there are moments when pivoting on both legs opens up exciting possibilities. This workshop will explore how these dual-leg pivots can create opportunities for engaches, calesitas, and much more, adding new dimensions to your Tango.
*****
Class 3: Fluidity vs Sharpness – Elasticity in Tango (Saturday)
Excess tension in the body can make dancing uncomfortable and greatly limit Tango movement, so by introducing elasticity, we can enhance dynamics and bring forward new steps! In this workshop, we’ll explore how to balance fluidity and sharpness for a more dynamic and enjoyable dance.
*****
Class 4: Boleos Through the Tango Eras (Saturday)
Explore the evolution of the boleo in Argentine Tango, from the classic, sharp, and compact movements of the past to the larger, more elastic boleos of Tango Nuevo. This workshop will study the changing styles and techniques that have shaped this iconic figure, which you will be testing with your partner.
*****
Class 5: Milonga – Let’s Bring in Some Fun (Sunday)
Milonga can be exciting for some, intimidating for others. The misconception that it must be super fast is simply not true. The pace is yours to choose, but it should always be fun! In this workshop, we’ll explore various steps, timings, and challenges to bring out the joy in milonga.
*****
Class 6: Vals – Let’s Get Dizzy! (Sunday)
Vals is loved for its turns, fluidity, and romantic rhythm. In this workshop, we’ll focus on transitioning between single turns and cadenas, and back.
Don’t miss out!
Maja and Marko
*****
Class A: 16 Pimp up my ocho cortado (Friday)
In this lesson we’ll take this well known figure and spice it up in different ways. We’ll play with various embellishments, rhythms and exits for both roles.
*****
Class B: Quebrada reloaded (Friday)
Here we’ll take quebrada to another level for an instant and epic burst of energy. To make it even better, we’ll do all that in close embrace.
*****
Class C: Phrasing and pausing (Saturday)
Changing the dynamics is one of the most important elements of the dance. Here we’ll focus on clean phrasing and choosing the right moment to pause the lesson will be a well balanced mixture of musicality and technique. If that was difficult to read, it’s because that thought lacks both phrasing and pausing. Let us show you how to create logical and well structured tango sentences.
*****
Class D: The “strange” sacada (Saturday)
This sacada is the missing piece of the puzzle! Here we’ll show you one of the more unusual sacadas and we’ll explain why it’s different than the others. We’ll demonstrate how to use it in a circular or a linear fashion.
*****
Class E: Embellishing milonga (Sunday)
If you’re bored with regular milonga steps this is a workshop for you! we’ll share a few playful combinations of embellishments in close embrace which you’ll be able to further develop on your own.
*****
Class F: Dancing to Pugliese (Sunday)
Crushing la yumba, magnificent solos, bubbling crescendos, complete chaos, pedantic order, extreme tension and sweet release… Pugliese has it all. And after taking this lesson, you might too.
Stephanie and Fausto
*****
Class U: Embrace forms (Friday)
Embrace forms, structure and their elasticity
*****
Class V: Connection (Friday)
Creation and interpretation of the guide from our
point of view
*****
Class W: Simple Milonguero turns (Saturday)
Simple Milonguero turns
*****
Class X: Music basics 1 (Saturday)
Change of dynamics, pauses, lead and
interpretation
*****
Class Y: Complex Milonguero turns (Sunday)
Complex Milonguero turns
*****
Class Z: Music basics 2 (Sunday)
How to recognize and interpret musical
structures in tango, between rhythm, melody and pauses
Schedule
| Queen City Tango Marathon, 2025 | ||||
| Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 | 7:00p- 10:00p | Check In at Registration in the University Ballroom | ||
| 10:00p- 2:00a | Welcome Milonga w/DJ James Oh | |||
| Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 | ||||
| 11:30a- 12:30p | Chacarerra Class, (complimentary) University Ballroom | |||
| 1:00p- 5:00p | Alternative Milonga w/DJ John Singletary | |||
| 8:00p- 12:00a | Evening Milonga w/DJ Vania Rey | |||
| 12:00a | Special Guest – Grisha Nisnevich | |||
| 12:00a- 4:00a | Late Night Milonga w/DJ Don Xello | |||
| Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 | ||||
| 11:30a- 12:30p | Chacarerra Class, (complimentary) University Ballroom | |||
| 1:00p- 5:00p | Alternative/Nuevo Milonga w/DJ Terry Eso | |||
| 8:00p- 12:00a | Evening Milonga w/DJ Milton Gallo | |||
| 12:00a | Special Guest – Grisha Nisnevich | |||
| 12:00a- 4:00a | Late Night Milonga w/DJ Shahin Medghalchi | |||
| Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025 | ||||
| 11:00a- 2:00p | Exploring the Music of Argentine Tango: A Workshop | |||
| 1:00p- 5:00p | Milonga w/DJ DimOn | |||
| 8:00p- 12:00p | Evening Milonga w/DJ Mark Mindel | |||
| 12:00a- 4:00a | Late Night Milonga w/DJ Kimberly Scola | |||
| Monday, Jan. 20, 2025 | ||||
| 12:00p- 4:00p | Farewell Milonga w/DJ Karen Jaffe | |||
* Saturday Evening Milonga’s theme will be the color pink
DJs
*****
Melina Mistral
Renowned for her ability to excel both as a leader and follower, Melina’s passion for teaching has led her on a journey across the Americas and Europe, where she draws from her diverse background in various movement disciplines to share her love for Argentine Tango. She also delves deep into the analysis of its various styles and techniques, exploring how they shape and influence each person’s dance.
Collaborating with international teachers, Melina has given workshops and stages around the globe, captivating audiences with her expertise and artistry.
Introduced as a DJ in the local milongas of Montreal, Melina pierced the international and festival/marathon stage first in the USA, to eventually expand out to Europe. Her experience and versatility as a social dancer in both roles, as well as a professional teacher and performer, have made her very sensitive to the dancer’s and the Ronda’s energy. She believes in a balance of flavors, keeping in mind the venue, the event, the time of day and the dancers
*****
Vladimir Timoshevskiy
Vladimir brings over a decade of passion and experience to the tango community, having danced tango for 12 years and honed his DJ craft through a deep appreciation of the connection between music and movement, ensuring every song resonates with dancers on the floor.
His work as a DJ reflects a profound dedication to exploring the history and legacy of Orquestas Típicas, crafting selections that honor the rich traditions of tango music. Vladimir has DJed regularly at hundreds of local milongas and prácticas in Lexington and Louisville, KY, as well as in Ohio and Illinois.
As both a dancer and DJ, Vladimir has an intuitive sense of the dance floor’s rhythm. He curates his playlists with precision, focusing on musically captivating and rhythmically engaging tracks that create a dynamic and evolving atmosphere. His sets are thoughtfully designed to guide dancers through an immersive journey of connection, energy, and emotion.
Vladimir’s repertoire centers on traditional tango music, enhanced by rare and carefully chosen interpretations from contemporary orchestras. These selections, chosen with exceptional care and an eye for quality, offer a timeless yet fresh experience, captivating both seasoned tangueros and newcomers alike.
*****
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.
*****
Sofia Tikhovidova
While most toddlers were focused on crawling, Sofia was already intensely practicing her cabaceo, and breaking in her first pair of high heels by the age of two. She brings her life long love of tango and her passion for the music to all of her sets; your feet won’t know whether to beg for mercy or just beg for more.
As a DJ, Sofia loves to incorporate contrast, while still embracing a delicate flow of energy that inspires warm embraces, playful movements, and endless possibilities; keeping you on your toes… literally.
Her approach to DJing focuses on adapting to the crowd and tailoring her sets to make the floor come to life, in that unique shared moment. Recently, she’s DJ’d the Gavito and Albuquerque Tango Festivals as well as multiple times at the LA, San Diego, and Phoenix Tango Marathons. Hear her at the upcoming Austin Tango Festival (March 2025).
*****
Park Euan
My first encounter with tango was in a theatre, watching a Korean original play, a story about a girl with polyamory tendencies. Because one of the actors was a social tango dancer, the director used tango dance as a significant building block of the storytelling. The tango, interwoven into a storyline of love, captivated me, and I began to learn tango in no time, and have been dancing as a social dancer in Seoul milongas ever since. From the very beginning, the tango music captivated me and since 2015 I have been DJing all over Korea: Seoul, Busan, Daejeon and Changwon, to name a few. To my joy, I added Taiwan and the US, Utopia Encuentro 2024, into my djing career recently. Besides, teaching tango and working as the manager of SoloTango community in Seoul marked a special moment in my tango life.
As a TDJ, I also tried to understand the process of music making, as well as the resulting music itself. As a result, using the work experience as a publisher-cum-translator, I decided to publish the Korean version of Michael Lavocah’s interesting book, ‘Tango Stories: Musical Secrets’, co-translated by me and another TDJ Benjamin Lee. I know clearly that DJ’s job is to make people dance: firstly, using the flows in each tanda and between tandas, and secondly, interacting with the live energy of the dance floor. In this process of ‘Live Tango’, each of us, as a member of a huge tango community, are adding our own input to renew tango, making it richer and more enjoyable. In this collective process of renewing tango, I believe that the beautiful tango music from the Golden Era of D’Arienzo, Di Sarli, Troilo, and Pugliese is being given a new life as today’s ‘Tango with Poly-Amor’.
*****
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.
*****
Karen Jaffe
Karen Jaffe lives near Asheville, NC. In her 25+ years of Tango she has supported dancers and communities through offering countless classes and social dances along with organizing dozens of full weekend events with exceptional guest teachers. She travels extensively to continue her own education and to teach, DJ and perform. In her many years of study with numerous masters she continues to evolve both as a dancer and a teacher. She is known for her skilled, engaging, and musical dancing in both roles, and for her easygoing, fun and playful energy. She is currently on break from touring the US with her Argentine partner Tate Di Chiazza.
Karen began DJing early on her Tango journey and from 2006-2015 played music for her weekly milonga in downtown Asheville as well as many events around the region. She strives to create a stimulating and emotional journey for the dancers, encouraging them to go deeper in their connection with both their partner and the music, for a richer, more quality experience. Her vast exploration of both traditional and alternative music, over many years, allows her a great range of possibilities to create an environment for optimal enjoyment!
www.tangogypsies.com
*****
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
*****
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.
*****
Julia Schiptsova – Shoes
Julia Schiptsova founded JuliaBella LLC in 2006, after her first year of tango classes inspired her to visit Argentina, and to seek out the mysterious and sexy Comme il Faut heels. She found her way to the exclusive boutique in Buenos Aires; six pairs of divine stilettos later, she gave up her day job to become the larger distributor of Comme il Faut shoes in the US. Her collection now includes the strong and gorgeous lines for women from DNI, debalar*, SUR Tango and Arte deCalibre tango shoes.
JuliaBella is based in Washington, DC, and has expanded to include location in San Francisco, offering Comme il Faut, SUR at tango festivals across North America.
Julia prides her team on its special skill of finding that unique pair for every woman.
*****
Mariposa Tango Boutique
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 2024.
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.
*****
Natalia Moroz – Artwork
Artwork
*****
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/
Photographers
*****
Louis Parks
Louis Parks has been dancing tango and shooting portraiture since 2009, and his work reflects a deep understanding of the nuances of both artistic media. He has a keen eye for both the drama and tenderness that characterize tango embrace, movement, and artistry. With his wife Jennifer (also a tanguera) providing editorial support, they form an uncommon team, able to visually tell the story of a tango event as experienced through the hearts of dancers.
Check out his work on Instagram and Facebook
https://www.instagram.com/louistangophoto
https://www.facebook.com/louistangophoto/photos_by
*****
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 and I started dancing tango in 2011 and have not looked back since that first lesson. All our best friends are tango dancers, and many are like family to us.
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,
Photo & Video Archive
Click here for the photo archive!
Previous years will be added shortly.
Marathon Years: 2025, 24, 23, 22, 20, 19, 18
Festival Years: 2024, 23, 22
Register
Waiver and Release
I am aware that the event will be held in person and, on behalf of myself, my heirs, successors, assigns, and personal representatives, I agree to hold the members of the Queen City Tango Festival and staff & Hilton Hotel (together referred to as “Organizer”) harmless and agree to discharge, release, or waive any claim of liability or damages for any injury, physical or emotional, that I might suffer as a result of my participating in the Queen City Tango Festival. This waiver specifically includes but is not limited to the remote possibility that I may contract COVID-19 or any variant of COVID-19 while participating at the event, or other injuries related to this event whether specifically dance related or otherwise. Should any claim be brought by me against Organizer for liability and/or damages resulting from my participation in this event, I will be responsible for paying Organizer’s reasonable attorney fees and cost for having to defend against such action.
Cancellation/Refund Policy
A full refund will be available to anyone to cancels before May 1st. A 50% refund will be available to anyone who cancels before June 1st.
No refunds will be issued after June 30th. On June 1st the price of a pass will increase by $50, totaling $265.
By clicking the button below and going to the purchase page, I hereby acknowledge and agree to all of the above terms relating to QCTF and its organizers.