SUNNYSIDE — Learn to dance like the stars, from the stars.
Thalia Spanish Theatre, a bilingual theater that's been open in Sunnyside for 37 years, is offering tango lessons this winter taught by two of the performers from its most recent production.
Dancers Carolina Jaurena and Andres Bravo will teach the classes, offered for seven consecutive Saturdays beginning Feb. 7 and geared for both experienced tango dancers and first-timers.
"We're starting with everybody from zero, so they shouldn't worry about not having any experience in tango," said William Lopera, the theater's administrative director.
Teachers Jaurena and Bravo are also performers in the theater's latest show, "Tango 5 Senses," which debuted Jan. 30 and will run through March 22.
The show features eight tango dancers and two singers, who are accompanied by live music composed and directed by Raul Jaurena, who won a Latin Grammy for Best Tango Album in 2007. He plays the bandoneon — an instrument similar to an accordion — and will be joined by a live pianist, violinist, bass player and clarinet player.
Audience members are encouraged to bring their dancing shoes, as they're allowed to get on stage and tango for a portion of the show, according to Lopera.
"If the audience wants to jump on stage they have a couple of minutes to experience the dancing and the music," he said.
Tickets to "Tango 5 Senses" are $40, or $37 for seniors and students. There will also be a special Valentine's Day performance for $90, which includes a reception with wine and tapas.
The tango lessons cost $25 a class, or $140 for all seven classes, according to Lopera, who said Tango is a genre those of all backgrounds can enjoy.
"It's passionate, it's vibrant, it's fiery," he said. "It's very romantic before anything else."
Thalia Spanish Theatre is located at 41-17 Greenpoint Ave. in Sunnyside. For a schedule of shows or to purchase tickets, visit its website.
