AGEISM IN TANGO: Natural or Controversial

AGEISM IN TANGO: Natural or Controversial? - with Robin Thomas (NYC)

In a follow-up to his earlier discussions on the darker aspects of tango culture, Robin Thomas delves into the topic of ageism in tango in his latest video. This discussion sheds light on how age discrimination, particularly against older dancers, has evolved within the tango community.

Overview

Robin Thomas, who has been a part of the New York City tango scene for over 25 years, reminisces about the early days when the community was smaller and more inclusive. At that time, people of all ages mixed freely on the dance floor. However, as the scene grew and more young people were introduced, a shift occurred, leading to a form of segregation where younger dancers often preferred to dance among themselves.

Discussion Points

• Emergence of Ageism: Initially, ageism was not prevalent in tango, but as demographics shifted, it became more noticeable.
• Challenges for Older Dancers: Older dancers often find themselves facing both subtle and overt forms of discrimination, impacting their participation and experience.
• Ageism as a Fact of Life: Robin presents a nuanced view of ageism, suggesting that while it is a sad reality, it is also a natural aspect of societal dynamics, both within and outside of tango.
• Physical and Mental Challenges: The discussion also touches on the physical and mental challenges that come with aging, suggesting that staying physically active, such as maintaining a gym membership, might help older dancers continue to enjoy tango.

Conclusion

Robin Thomas reflects on his own aging process and how it affects his perspective on tango. While acknowledging the complexities of ageism, he poses critical questions about its potential justifications and how the tango community might address these challenges moving forward.