Interview with Karen Garnett, by Mona
Take a step back in time and join us for an elegant 1920s themed Tango weekend in the Blue Mountains. With the historic Carrington Ballroom and Autumn colours as the back drop.
- Tell me about the conjuncture that led you to organise 1920 Tango event.
When I found out that I was a confirmed rider on the Optus Team for Tour de Cure and it sunk in that I had to raise $3500 minimum to qualify, I made a plan for the usual cake stalls / bbqs, but needed a larger event to ensure I met this target.
As one of the founding members of Tango Synergy, the weekends I remember most are the ones we organised at the Carrington and Bundanoon. You feel a bit special walking into the Carrington Hotel and it’s the perfect venue to hold a 1920’s themed milonga. It’s been a while since the last Blue Mountains weekend, and we’ve added some twists such as the Flashmob on Echo Point.
- Why did you choose the 20’ theme?
The fashion of the 20’s is just so romantic, elegant and screams style. It also works with Argentine Tango and its heyday when some of the best tango music was created.
- What are the highlights of the weekend 2-3 April in Katoomba?
We’ve some of the best DJs from Sydney coming to entertain you with over 10 hours of dancing. We’ve chosen a milonga structure – 4 tandas/cortina for all the events. The highlight is the 1920s Tango milonga on the Saturday night we’re we will be raffling off some amazing prizes including Port Macquarie Tango Festival, Noches de Tango 6 month pass, Tango Synergy Membership and Tango Synergy BASH ticket, Bouquet from Flowers by Teresa, Skirt by J Heart and even Katoomba Accommodation to be used at a future date.
All raffle tickets will also be put into other major prizes: $200 Laser Clinic voucher, Sterling Silver personalised bracelet ($220), Award winning 24 wine rack. We’ve also added a welcome milonga at the Carrington on the Sat afternoon with DJ Pavel.
We will have farewell milonga at The Inner Space on the Sunday afternoon with DJ Alex. The Floor here is beautiful and the owner wants to protect them, so we have arranged a Shoes off Socks on theme.
- Will it be a full tango weekend, or other activities will take place?
Imagine dancing into the sunset in front of one of the most incredible views – the Three sisters! Our Flashmob will be in this location, with DJ Nick. It will be a unique stage for tango dancers. I’ve also arranged a guide for a bush walk on the Sunday morning. The National Pass is one of the most spectacular in the Blue mountains. We will walk along the cliff by many waterfalls and the views are incredible.
- How can I register? There are any special benefits for tango Synergy members?
Tango Synergy members receive a $5 discount, and you get a further discount if registering as a couple. You can register from:
Tango Synergy website
Facebook: 1920s tango
Website: 1920stango.weebly.com
Photos: Karen’s personal collection