German Cornejo talks ‘Tango After Dark’: “Tango is so much more than just a dance”

After the spectacular success of its latest run, the show returns the allure, pizzazz, and sensuality of Argentina’s most popular art form while honouring one of its most prominent composers. Guillermo Nazara chats with the show’s lead creative about the development process, new additions, and the importance of keeping this tradition alive and continually evolving.

How does it feel to be bringing the show back to the London scene?

London has always been a very special place for me. I’ve been performing here since 2007, and over the years I’ve developed a wonderful connection with its audiences. Bringing Tango After Dark back to Sadler’s Wells feels like coming home. It’s particularly exciting to return to the main stage this time, and to share the show with both familiar faces and new audiences.

How did the idea for the show come about in the first place?

I’ve always been fascinated by Astor Piazzolla’s music and the incredible emotional depth of his compositions. I wanted to create a production where his music could be experienced through dance, almost like a concert where the dancers become part of the orchestra. Tango After Dark was born from that idea, combining my love for tango, music and theatre into something very personal.

Will this new run feature any changes or new additions?

Yes! Although the essence of the production remains the same, the show has continued to evolve over the years. We have new dancers joining the cast, bringing their own personalities and interpretations to the choreography. For me, a production is never completely finished: it grows with the artists performing it, and that’s something I really enjoy.

The piece aims to champion tango in its most authentic form. Do you think other tango-related shows may have somewhat betrayed its true essence?

I wouldn’t say that. I believe every artist has their own way of interpreting tango, and that’s part of what keeps it alive. For me, authenticity isn’t necessarily about reproducing something exactly as it was decades ago. It’s about understanding and respecting where tango comes from, its culture, its music and, above all, the connection between two people. You can explore new artistic directions without losing that essence.

The show intends to present tango in its most intimate and rawest form. How does that concept translate into the performance?

For me, tango begins with an embrace. It’s a conversation between two people without words, where every movement comes from listening and responding to each other. In Tango After Dark, I wanted to preserve that intimacy while bringing it into a theatrical setting. Even in the most technically demanding moments, the emotion and the connection between the dancers must always come first.

What creative challenges have you faced with this show in particular?

One of the biggest challenges was translating Piazzolla’s incredibly complex music into movement. His compositions are full of contrasts, unexpected rhythms, and emotional shifts. As a choreographer, that gives me enormous freedom, but it also demands a lot of creativity. Finding the right balance between musicality, technique, and emotion has been one of the most rewarding parts of creating this show.

Are there any highlights in the show that you would like to flag?

There are several moments I’m particularly attached to, but I wouldn’t want to give too much away! What I love about this production is its variety. There are powerful ensemble pieces, very intimate duets, and moments where the music takes centre stage. Having our musicians and singers performing live adds another dimension to the experience. Every performance feels slightly different, and that’s the beauty of live theatre.

What are the prospects for the show after this new London run?

We already have a US tour scheduled for 2027, along with other exciting international plans. We’re also working on bringing the show back to Taiwan, which would be wonderful. Tango After Dark has already taken us to some incredible places around the world, and it’s exciting to see that journey continuing. I’m really looking forward to sharing the production with more audiences in the years ahead.

Why come see Tango After Dark?

Because tango is so much more than just a dance. It’s music, passion, vulnerability, connection, and a whole range of human emotions. Whether you already love tango or have never experienced it before, I hope you’ll leave the theatre having felt something genuine. And of course, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the energy of ten dancers and seven musicians and singers sharing the stage live!

Production pictures credit to Danny Kaan.

Tango After Dark plays at London’s Sadler’s Wells until 9 November. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara