Puerta al Tango Handbook

Welcome to Puerta al Tango

Puerta al Tango is Albuquerque’s most inclusive tango school.

Housed in the iconic Las Puertas, we offer weekly classes, monthly series, and social events that are simple to follow and fun to attend.

We believe that holding space that is safe and welcoming is essential for learning, and we prioritize empowering students through that environment.

Here you will learn how to dance tango socially through body awareness and human connection, at your own pace, to create a style that is uniquely you.

How We Learn & Practice Together

We Are Teammates

Everyone in this room is a peer. We learn together, support one another, and grow side by side.

Your Experience Matters

Whether today is your first class or your hundredth, your experience of your own body is always valid. You are always welcome to say:

• “I’m not comfortable with that.”
• “I’d like to stay with what I know right now.”

Clear Guidance

There is one guide in the room. My role is to help each dancer find more ideal ways of moving and connecting for their body and preferences. If something feels unclear, I’m here. (See the learning options below for individual feedback while I’m guiding class.)

Self-Focused Learning

We practice by refining our own movement and awareness. Curiosity, kindness, and presence keep the room supportive.

Peer Feedback by Choice

Helpful feedback begins with consent. When feedback is wanted, it’s invited and shared with care. I encourage teamwork for problem-solving and praise.

Learning Through Feeling

Tango works best when it’s felt, not explained. Clarity often arrives through sensation, timing, and connection.

Consent Is Central

All shared movement is built on mutual agreement. You always get to choose what feels right for you. A simple “thank you” or “not right now” is always enough.

You Are the Expert on Your Body

Experience brings insight — and so does listening to yourself. Choose what supports your clarity, comfort, and curiosity.

Let’s Assume Good Intentions

Tango can sometimes touch on triggers… and tango is also a great healer. Be kind to yourself. There is no right or wrong — just what may be more ideal for you.

Everyone here is learning something. Everyone here is going through something. Patience with ourselves and generosity with others make the dance richer.

When Learning, You May Always Choose:

Enthusiastic Consent & Duty of Care

At Puerta al Tango, enthusiastic consent is one of the foundations of a safe and respectful dance environment.

This is the definition referenced throughout the handbook.

A Duty of Care

Argentine tango is a partnered and social dance. Our actions affect not only ourselves, but also our partners and the surrounding community. Every dancer shares responsibility for:

• Respecting the boundaries and comfort levels of others.
• Being mindful of their partner’s safety.
• Remaining aware of surrounding dancers and available space.
• Choosing movements appropriate to their skill level and the environment.
• Prioritizing safety, trust, and respect over the completion of a movement.

When faced with a choice between completing a movement and protecting another person’s safety, comfort, balance, dignity, or personal agency, choose safety every time.

The objective is not to demonstrate what we can do. The objective is to create an enjoyable experience together.

Studio Safety Rules

Argentine tango is a social dance built upon trust, communication, awareness, consent, and mutual respect. These rules are not here to restrict creativity. They exist to create an environment where dancers of all ages, abilities, experience levels, backgrounds, and comfort levels may participate safely and enjoyably. By participating in any Puerta al Tango activity, you agree to follow these guidelines.

Every dancer has the right to determine how they wish to move, connect, and participate. No dancer is ever obligated to perform a movement, accept physical contact, or dance with another person. A simple “No thank you” or “Not right now” is always sufficient and should be respected without question. Enthusiastic consent guides all partner interactions. (See “Enthusiastic Consent & Duty of Care” for the full definition.)

For the safety of all participants, lifts are not permitted during any Puerta al Tango class, workshop, practica, milonga, private lesson, or social event. This applies regardless of experience level or mutual consent. At least one of either dancers’ feet must remain on the ground at all times. No lifts. Period.

High boleos (“whips”), kicks, swinging legs, or any movement that places another dancer at risk are not permitted on the social dance floor. Heels should remain low, controlled, and mindful of surrounding dancers. The safety of everyone sharing the floor always takes precedence over the execution of any particular movement.

Certain movements intentionally bring a partner off their own axis — a volcada (“tilt” or “lean”), for example, where one dancer shares weight and is invited away from their own balance. These can be beautiful when mutually understood and skillfully executed, but they involve greater physical trust, responsibility, and risk.

No dancer should ever be brought off their own axis unexpectedly. Any movement that intentionally invites another dancer off their axis requires prior discussion, understanding, and enthusiastic verbal consent — for physical safety, and so that every dancer keeps agency over how they move. When in doubt, do not proceed.

Some movements require one dancer’s leg or body to enter, intersect, displace, or travel through another dancer’s movement space — ganchos (“hooks”), sacadas (“displacements”), leg wraps, and the like. These can be expressive, but they can also feel invasive, vulnerable, startling, or triggering when introduced unexpectedly.

No dancer should ever be surprised by this type of interaction. These movements require prior understanding and enthusiastic consent. Trust is built when dancers respect one another’s boundaries. When in doubt, ask first.

Sentadas, in which one dancer is brought to sit upon another dancer’s leg, knee, or hips, are not permitted at Puerta al Tango events. This is not part of the style of social tango we teach, practice, or promote. Please, no sentadas at any time.

The embrace should remain respectful, supportive, and free from unnecessary restriction. Partners should never feel trapped, manipulated, restrained, or physically pressured. Any dancer may request an adjustment to the embrace at any time, and these requests should be received respectfully and without defensiveness.

No hand should ever go lower than navel height without prior consent. Caressing, touching, or stroking another dancer’s neck, torso, or body without explicit consent is not appropriate and is not tolerated. If something feels uncomfortable, speak with us immediately. We are here to help.

The dance floor belongs to everyone, and all dancers share responsibility for a safe and enjoyable ronda (“circle of dance”). Please:

• Move with awareness of surrounding couples.
• Travel with the flow of the dance floor.
• Avoid sudden large movements.
• Avoid blocking traffic.
• Enter the floor only when space permits.
• Yield to dancers already in motion.
• Avoid taking large backward steps into the line of dance.
• Avoid tailgating or crowding the couple ahead of you.

Good floorcraft is one of the highest expressions of social tango. The more awareness we bring to the floor, the more freedom everyone enjoys.

If you are sick, please stay home. This includes fever, vomiting, contagious illness, persistent coughing, and flu-like symptoms. We would much rather help you find a make-up solution than risk spreading illness throughout the community. Please communicate with us if illness prevents attendance — we will work with you.

Argentine tango is a close-embrace dance. Out of respect for fellow dancers, please arrive in clean clothing, practice good personal hygiene, use deodorant as needed, and consider bringing a spare shirt. Be mindful of strong perfumes, colognes, fabric softeners, and heavily scented products — many dancers have sensitivities or allergies to fragrances. (More in “Hygiene & Shared Comfort.”)

My role here is as a guide and a community builder — someone whose job is to help hold a space where everyone can learn and feel safe. Keeping that space healthy is something we do together.

When behavior makes the space unsafe, disruptive, disrespectful, or unwelcoming, I will step in — always with care, and always with education first. Depending on the situation, that might look like a gentle reminder, a private conversation, a clear request to change something, or, when it’s needed to protect the community, a pause or an end to someone’s participation. The well-being of the community always comes first.

Safety is not the responsibility of one person. Safety belongs to all of us. The strongest tango communities are built by dancers who care for one another, stay aware of their surroundings, communicate clearly, respect boundaries, and dance with generosity. Thank you for helping us create a welcoming environment where everyone may learn, explore, and enjoy Argentine tango.

Community Code of Conduct & Reporting

A Shared Standard

Puerta al Tango welcomes people of every background, age, race, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, body, and walk of life. We expect everyone here to treat one another with respect, care, and good faith.

What We Don’t Allow

Harassment, discrimination, intimidation, unwanted persistent attention, and any behavior that makes another person feel unsafe have no place here. This includes unwelcome comments, repeated invitations after a clear no, non-consensual touch, and pressure of any kind. Consent — on the floor and off it — is not optional.

Telling Us

If something doesn’t feel right, you can speak with Graham directly, in person or privately. You may also write to graham@puertatango.com with a clear subject line. You do not need to be certain, and you do not need proof. If it mattered to you, it matters to us.

What Happens Next

We listen first. We take concerns seriously and handle them with as much discretion as the situation allows. Depending on what’s shared, a response may include a private conversation, a check-in, a clear request to change behavior, or — when needed to protect the community — a pause or end to someone’s participation. Education comes first. Safety comes always. Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith is itself a violation.

Community Guidelines & Tango Etiquette

It is really all about good manners, awareness, and respect. Thinking a little more about others than ourselves. Thinking about the shared experience. Thinking about creating an environment where people feel comfortable, safe, welcome, and free to be themselves.

We strive to maintain a positive, respectful environment where students of all backgrounds, experience levels, ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, nationalities, and walks of life feel comfortable participating. We are all here because we enjoy dancing, learning, music, movement, and community. If something does not feel right, please let us know — you may always speak with Graham directly or contact us privately.

Equality of Dancers

At Puerta al Tango, all dancers are equals. Both dance roles are equal, and both contribute equally to the creation of the dance. One role is not more important than the other — tango is a conversation, a shared exploration, a cooperative act of creation between two people. Many dancers study one role deeply; others enjoy exploring both. Both approaches are welcome. All are welcome.

Freedom of Choice

One of the beautiful aspects of social tango is that every dancer remains free to make their own choices. Each person has the right to their own space, their own quiet moment, and their own decision whether or not to dance.

• A dancer may accept an invitation.
• A dancer may decline an invitation.
• A dancer may choose to sit quietly and enjoy the music.
• A dancer may choose to dance every tanda of the evening.

A simple “No thank you” or “Not right now” is always sufficient. No explanation is necessary.

La Mirada & El Cabeceo

We encourage the traditional practices of la mirada (the look between equals) and el cabeceo (the nod of agreement). Together they form a respectful, elegant, low-pressure way for dancers to communicate interest in sharing a dance. A mutual look establishes possible interest; a nod confirms mutual agreement.

Neither dancer is placed on the spot. Neither is required to verbally decline. Both remain free to choose. While verbal invitations certainly occur and may be appropriate in some situations, we encourage dancers to learn and practice la mirada and el cabeceo as valuable social skills that contribute to the culture of Argentine tango.

Leave People Free

One of the simplest ways to create a welcoming community is to leave people free: free to dance, free to decline, free to rest, free to observe, free to enjoy a quiet moment. Sometimes a person simply wishes to sit quietly, listen to the music, watch the floor, or enjoy a moment of solitude. Please allow them that freedom. Not every silence needs to be filled. Not every moment needs to become a conversation. Sometimes the most respectful thing we can do is simply allow another person to be.

The Shared Agreement of a Tanda

A tanda (a social collective agreement) is one of the fundamental social agreements of Argentine tango. When two dancers agree to share a tanda, they are not simply agreeing to dance a single song. They are agreeing to share a brief experience — a conversation, a journey through a collection of music, a few moments of attention, presence, and partnership.

The tanda creates a beginning, a middle, and an end. For many dancers, this structure is part of what makes Argentine tango unique among social dances. It provides enough time to settle into the music, discover one another’s communication style, and develop a shared experience that extends beyond a single song.

How a Tanda Is Built

Tandas are generally a collection of three to four songs, separated by cortinas (“curtains,” brief breaks) — short pieces of music that mark the space between tandas so dancers may clear the ronda.

A tanda is generally drawn from one orchestra — either instrumental or with a single singer — and captures a particular mood or sentiment. A good DJ builds trust with the dancers by offering clear “contracts”: the tanda announces a certain idea or feeling at its start, so that when dancers choose a partner they are not surprised by music contrary to what was presented. Occasionally a tanda may, out of necessity, mix between instrumental and cantor (singer), or even between orchestras, due to the availability of recordings.

A Traditional Cycle

A traditional cycle a DJ might play uses four-song (temas) tango tandas, three-song vals tandas, and three-song milonga tandas, in this format:

There is room for variation. A DJ may choose to make every tanda only three songs. Some play four valses. Some use three-song tandas throughout in a format such as: Tango · Tango · Tango · Vals · Tango · Tango · Milonga.

The Invitation

Whether initiated through la mirada, el cabeceo, or a verbal invitation, agreeing to dance a tanda generally means agreeing to share the entire tanda. This expectation helps create clarity, consistency, and comfort within the social environment.

Breaking Tandas

We encourage any individual to break a tanda (stop dancing with someone and exit the dance floor mid-tanda) if they feel unsafe, disrespected, or for any reason that may render finishing the tanda disruptive, taxing, or unpleasant. The best way to end a tanda is to say “Thank you” and walk away.

The Dance Floor

A tanda is not only an agreement between two dancers; it is also participation in a larger shared experience. Every couple contributes to the atmosphere, movement, and harmony of the room. As we dance, we strive to remain aware of the music, our partner, and the other dancers sharing the floor. The most memorable dances are rarely the most complicated — they are often the most attentive.

The Cortina (The Curtain)

Between tandas a brief musical interlude known as a cortina (“curtain”) is traditionally played. It signals the conclusion of one shared experience and creates space before the next begins — a moment to thank a partner, return to one’s seat, stretch, hydrate, greet a friend, or simply enjoy a pause. The cortina helps reset the room and keeps choices free for everyone.

When Life Happens

As with all social customs, kindness and common sense take precedence. Occasionally a dancer may need to leave a tanda due to injury, illness, discomfort, safety concerns, or another legitimate reason. These situations are rare and understandable. Our goal is not rigid adherence to etiquette, but an environment of awareness, respect, communication, and goodwill. The purpose of tango etiquette is not to limit freedom — it is to support it.

Direct Communication & Community Care

Healthy communities are built upon communication, trust, and goodwill. Misunderstandings happen. Different personalities, communication styles, experiences, and perspectives occasionally lead to confusion or conflict.

When concerns arise, we encourage respectful and direct communication whenever appropriate. Many situations are resolved quickly through a simple conversation. When direct communication does not feel appropriate, or when additional support is needed, Graham is available to help facilitate understanding and resolution.

We encourage curiosity before assumption. Questions before conclusions. Understanding before judgment. Whenever possible, assume good intentions. Most people are doing the best they can with the awareness, experience, and circumstances available to them in that moment.

Everyone here is learning something. Everyone here is going through something. A strong community is not one without misunderstandings — it is one that learns how to navigate them with kindness, honesty, and respect.

Stewardship of the Studio

Puerta al Tango exists because many people, over many years, have contributed their time, energy, attention, resources, encouragement, and care. Stewardship is simply the practice of leaving things a little better than we found them. No one is expected to do everything. Everyone is invited to do something.

Welcome the Stranger

Remember your first day. Most of us walked into a tango space knowing few people and wondering where to stand, what to do, and whether we belonged. When a new person arrives, help them feel welcome. Introduce yourself. Learn a name. Answer a question. Invite them into a conversation. A community grows stronger every time someone feels they belong.

Care for Shared Spaces

The studio belongs to all of us while we are here. If a tablecloth has slipped crooked, straighten it. If you move a chair, return it when you’re finished. If something needs a little attention and it takes only a moment to help, please consider doing so. Many small acts of care create an environment that feels welcoming and respected.

Wash What You Use

If you use a mug, glass, plate, or utensil, please wash it and return it to the drying area. If you notice a few additional dishes nearby, consider helping with one or two. And if dishes are dry and ready to be put away, feel free to lend a hand. Many hands make light work.

Tea, Water & Shared Resources

Tea has become part of the culture at Puerta al Tango. If you finish a container of tea, please let someone know so it can be replaced. If you empty the water kettle or hot-water boiler, please refill it before putting it back. The next person will appreciate your thoughtfulness — and so will Graham.

Leave Things Better Than You Found Them

Stewardship is not about perfection or keeping score. It is simply a mindset: Can I leave this space a little better than I found it? Can I make the next person’s experience a little easier? Can I contribute in a small way to something that benefits everyone? When many people ask those questions, a remarkable community begins to emerge.

Hygiene & Shared Comfort

Argentine tango is often danced in close embrace. Because we share space, breath, movement, and physical proximity, small acts of consideration have a meaningful impact on everyone’s comfort. Many dancers find it helpful to:

• Wear freshly laundered clothing.
• Use deodorant when appropriate.
• Bring a spare shirt for warmer evenings or after physical activity.
• Maintain fresh breath.
• Be mindful of perfumes, colognes, scented lotions, and other fragrances.

When laundering clothing, please be aware that some members of our community have sensitivities or allergies to fragrances added to detergents, fabric softeners, dryer sheets, and scent boosters. Unscented laundry products are often appreciated.

Please also be mindful of glitter and similar decorative products. While certainly a personal choice, glitter has a remarkable ability to travel home with other dancers, and some may prefer not to dance with glitter-covered clothing — particularly when wearing attire they wish to keep clean.

Perfumes and colognes are best used sparingly. If you wear a fragrance, please consider applying it lightly and away from areas that will be in close proximity to your partner’s face during the embrace. A little awareness goes a long way. We are all learning, and we are all human — a little grace and a little effort make the dance more enjoyable for everyone.

In Case of Emergency

If Someone Is Hurt or Unwell

In a medical emergency we will call 911 and do our best to assist until help arrives. A basic first-aid kit is kept on site. If you have a condition that may need attention during class — or anything we should know in an emergency — please tell Graham and make sure your emergency contact is current in our system.

Emergency Authorization

If you are unable to communicate during a medical emergency, you authorize Puerta al Tango to summon emergency medical care on your behalf. You remain responsible for the cost of any medical care provided.

Personal Property

Please keep track of your shoes, bags, water bottles, and valuables. Puerta al Tango is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen personal property. Found items are kept for a short time near the entrance — ask Graham if you’ve misplaced something.

Shoes & Shared Tables

Shoes and shoe bags are not for tables. Please do not place your shoes on seats or tabletops, as they are shared spaces and need to be kept clean. We encourage you to change your shoes away from the dance floor. In Argentina it is greatly frowned upon to change one’s shoes near la ronda, as it is disruptive and distracting. We suggest hooking your shoe bag on the seat back or under the chair, then taking your shoes in hand away from the surrounding dance-floor tables to change. You will find more friends this way!

Closures & Staying in Touch

Schedule changes, weather closures, and last-minute updates are announced by email and through our usual channels. When severe weather or an unexpected situation makes it unsafe to gather, your safety comes first, and we will reschedule or credit as appropriate. Please keep your contact information current so you don’t miss an update.

Channels to Check Before Heading to the Studio

• WhatsApp Group Chat
• Website home page (www.puerta-al-tango.com)
• Facebook Group
• Instagram (@puertatango)

Gratitude, Participation & Contribution

Every community is sustained by the people who participate in it. Some contribute through attendance. Some through volunteerism. Some through financial support. Some through encouragement, kindness, mentorship, and friendship. All of these contributions matter.

One of the simplest ways to support your community is to participate in it. Attend classes. Attend practicas. Attend milongas. Show up for one another. The events and opportunities we enjoy today exist because people before us showed up, participated, and helped create them.

The Scholarship Fund

One of the ways Puerta al Tango strives to expand access to tango is through our Scholarship Fund and related community-supported programs. These efforts help make classes, events, workshops, and learning opportunities more accessible to dancers facing financial barriers. Some dancers contribute directly to the fund; others contribute through volunteerism, mentorship, event support, or other acts of service. All are appreciated.

Memberships & Paying It Forward

Puerta al Tango offers multiple pricing options and membership levels in an effort to make participation accessible to a wide variety of people and circumstances. Life circumstances change. There may be times when a lower-cost option is the right choice — and times when circumstances improve. If your situation changes and you are able to support the community at a higher level, we appreciate your consideration in updating your membership accordingly. Doing so helps strengthen the programs, opportunities, and accessibility that benefit the broader community.

Volunteerism

Volunteering is never required. It is, however, one of the most meaningful ways to give back. Volunteers help in countless ways: welcoming new dancers, helping with setup and cleanup, assisting with events, sharing information about classes, supporting community projects, and helping fellow dancers feel included and at home. Small contributions often have a larger impact than we realize.

Thank You

Whether you contribute through attendance, encouragement, volunteerism, financial support, mentorship, or simply by showing up with goodwill — thank you. Communities are built one interaction, one dance, one conversation, and one act of generosity at a time. We are grateful you are part of Puerta al Tango.

The Four Spheres of Contribution

Monthly Memberships

Monthly Memberships are designed around the annual rhythm of Puerta al Tango programming rather than a guaranteed number of classes per calendar month. Membership supports ongoing participation, community involvement, consistent study, and the long-term sustainability of the studio. Membership pricing reflects a commitment to the learning process and the broader community rather than attendance at a specific number of classes within a given month.

Membership Commitment Period

Because memberships are intended for ongoing participation rather than short-term intensive attendance, all new Monthly Memberships carry a minimum commitment period of two (2) consecutive months. If a member cancels during the first month, the second month’s fee will still be due. In situations involving illness, injury, family emergencies, work obligations, relocation, or other significant circumstances, Puerta al Tango may, at its sole discretion, offer a credit for the second month to be redeemed later. Students seeking short-term participation are encouraged to consider individual classes, punchcards, workshops, or other offerings that may better fit their needs.

Billing, Cancellation & Membership Freezes

Memberships are billed on a monthly cycle. Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing at least fifteen (15) days before the next billing date. Members may request a temporary freeze due to injury, illness, family matters, extended travel, work obligations, or other significant circumstances. A membership may be frozen one (1) time per calendar year. We are generally happy to work with reasonable requests.

Studio Closures & Membership Acknowledgement

Puerta al Tango operates on a 48-week tango calendar year at the studio. Four (4) weeks are planned into the rhythm of learning as time off — space to regroup, recharge, and reflect. By enrolling in a Monthly Membership, members acknowledge that Puerta al Tango may schedule up to these four (4) weeks of planned studio closure per calendar year. These closures generally occur as individual weeks distributed throughout the year and may be used for instructor rest, continuing education, travel, guest teaching commitments, studio maintenance, or other operational needs. Whenever possible, advance notice will be provided. These planned closures are part of the annual rhythm of programming and do not result in refunds, credits, or reductions in fees.

Should a studio closure extend beyond one (1) consecutive week, Puerta al Tango will work in good faith with active Monthly Members to provide reasonable compensation for the additional closure period. Possible options may include:

• Credit toward future Monthly Memberships
• Credit toward private lessons
• Credit toward group classes or workshops
• Contribution of equivalent value toward the Scholarship Fund
• Other reasonable accommodations appropriate to the circumstances

Our goal is always to act fairly, transparently, and in good faith while maintaining the long-term sustainability of the studio and its programs.

Cancellation & Refund Policies

Life happens. We get sick. Work schedules change. Family responsibilities arise. Cars break down. Weather happens.

At Puerta al Tango, we understand that unexpected situations occur, and we strive to approach cancellations with fairness, flexibility, and common sense. At the same time, every class, private lesson, workshop, and event involves time, preparation, planning, studio resources, and reserved space on the calendar.

Our cancellation policies exist to honor both realities: life is unpredictable, and commitments matter. We will do our best to work with you when circumstances arise. In return, we ask for timely communication, consideration, and respect for the time reserved on your behalf.

Group Classes & Individual Classes

Individual classes are generally offered on an à la carte basis and may be paid for at the studio unless otherwise specified. Because payment typically occurs at the time of attendance, individual classes generally do not require cancellation procedures. If you are registered in advance and are unable to attend, we appreciate timely communication whenever possible. For regularly scheduled group classes, simply attend the next available class that works for your schedule, and please notify Graham so attendance records stay accurate.

Punchcard-10s

Punchcard-10s provide flexibility, convenience, and a reduced per-class rate for students who attend regularly. Each card includes ten (10) punches. One punch is required per person, per class, event, or practica attended. Punchcards may be shared between a maximum of two (2) individuals.

Eligible Uses

Punchcard-10s may be used for regularly scheduled group classes, Wednesday Community Practicas, Milonga Suerte Loca, and other eligible events specifically designated by Puerta al Tango. They are generally not valid for guest artist workshops, special seminars, or visiting instructor programs unless specifically stated.

Expiration & Extensions

Punchcard-10s expire four (4) months from the date of issue. Extensions may be granted with advance communication in cases of extended illness, injury, significant family responsibilities, work-related travel exceeding two (2) weeks, or other substantial circumstances at the studio’s discretion. We understand that life happens — please communicate as early as possible so we can work toward a reasonable solution.

Transfers

Punchcard-10s are non-refundable. They may be transferred to another individual with advance notice and approval from Graham Stanford. This policy exists to maintain accurate attendance records and ensure fair administration of studio programs.

Private Lessons

Private lessons reserve dedicated instructor time, preparation, and often studio space specifically for you — and in some cases involve instructor travel. Because this time is set aside exclusively for you, private lessons require a different cancellation policy than group classes.

More Than 24 Hours Notice

Private lessons canceled more than twenty-four (24) hours before the scheduled time may be rescheduled or credited without penalty. Whenever possible, please provide as much notice as you can so the time may be offered to another student.

Within 24 Hours

Private lessons canceled within twenty-four (24) hours may be subject to a late cancellation fee, because the time has been reserved specifically for you and may no longer be available to others on short notice. If the time is successfully filled by another student, a full credit will generally be issued through Acuity or by direct arrangement with Graham.

Annual Mulligan

Life happens. Each student is entitled to one (1) late-cancellation mulligan per calendar year. Provided notification is given, the first late cancellation of the year may be forgiven without penalty at Puerta al Tango’s discretion. The mulligan exists because unexpected situations arise, and we prefer to extend trust and understanding whenever reasonably possible.

Repeated Late Cancellations

Occasional late cancellations are a normal part of life. However, repeated late cancellations make it difficult to offer lesson times to other students. If a student accumulates three (3) late cancellations within a six (6) month period, and those times cannot be reassigned, Puerta al Tango reserves the right to charge for or deduct the equivalent of one full private lesson. Extraordinary circumstances, emergencies, illness, and other significant life events will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

No-Shows

A no-show occurs when a student fails to attend a scheduled lesson and provides no prior notification. No-shows without a valid emergency may result in the full lesson being forfeited and charged. Where communication was genuinely not possible, or a legitimate emergency prevented attendance, Puerta al Tango may, at its discretion, offer a partial credit, full credit, rescheduling, or another reasonable accommodation.

Travel Lessons

Lessons requiring instructor travel involve additional planning, travel time, fuel expenses, and schedule commitments. Students scheduling travel-based lessons acknowledge that cancellations may involve additional fees or modified terms depending on circumstances and location. Specific arrangements will be communicated in advance whenever applicable.

Guest Artist Workshops & Special Events

Guest artist workshops, visiting instructor seminars, and special events often involve significant advance planning, travel coordination, venue expenses, and financial commitments. For this reason, their cancellation policies differ from regularly scheduled classes.

Refunds & Cancellations

• More than seven (7) days before the event: full refund.
• Within seven (7) days of the event: partial refund, less a handling and administrative fee of approximately twenty percent (20%).

No-Shows

Participants who fail to attend without prior communication are not eligible for refunds or credits.

Illness, Emergencies & Extraordinary Circumstances

We strongly encourage participants to stay home when ill. In cases involving illness, family emergencies, travel disruptions, injury, or other extraordinary circumstances, Puerta al Tango will make every reasonable effort toward a fair and supportive solution — a full refund, a partial refund, credit toward a future event, or another mutually agreeable arrangement. Certain situations may require a handling or administrative fee, generally ten to twenty percent (10–20%), due to costs already incurred.

Our Philosophy

Private lessons and events work best when both student and instructor respect one another’s time. We strive to approach cancellations with fairness, flexibility, and common sense while honoring the time, preparation, and commitment reserved for each. If circumstances arise, please communicate as early as possible. The sooner we know, the more options we’re likely to have.

Age Requirements & Participation of Minors

Puerta al Tango programs are primarily designed for adults. Participants must be at least eighteen (18) years of age to attend classes, practicas, milongas, workshops, private lessons, or other studio activities independently.

Individuals under the age of eighteen (18) may participate only with the knowledge, consent, and in-person accompaniment of a parent or legal guardian throughout the activity. The accompanying parent or legal guardian assumes responsibility for the minor’s participation, conduct, supervision, and adherence to all studio policies and safety guidelines.

Puerta al Tango reserves the right to limit, modify, or deny participation when a program, event, activity, or environment is deemed unsuitable for minors. Questions regarding youth participation may be directed to Graham Stanford prior to registration or attendance.

The age-confirmation requirement and the parent/guardian acknowledgment that must be signed for any participant under 18 are part of the Participation Waiver & Release at the end of this handbook.

Privacy Policy

These policies aim to offer transparency and structure so you can fully understand the tango teaching environment. It is our top priority for students to make the most of their time in the most enjoyable way, and we increase our chances of success by being well prepared. We are always here to answer any question.

1. Information Collection

We collect personal information including names, contact information, and emergency contact information. This is collected for enrollment, communication, scheduling, billing, and emergency purposes.

2. Data Usage

Personal information is used solely for dance-school-related communication, billing, scheduling, and emergency situations. We do not share this information with third parties without explicit consent.

3. Security Measures

We employ industry-standard security measures through Acuity to protect personal information from unauthorized access or disclosure.

4. Student Images & Videos

We may capture images or videos during classes, performances, workshops, or events for promotional purposes. Consent will be sought before using any individual’s likeness. Puerta al Tango may also contract photographers or videographers to create promotional materials on behalf of the studio.

5. Communication Preferences

You may choose your communication preferences, including opting out of promotional materials, by contacting us. Please allow 5–7 days for implementation of changes made outside of Acuity.

6. Cookies & Analytics

Our website and scheduling platforms may use cookies to improve the user experience. Analytics tools may collect non-personal information to help improve our services and website functionality.

7. Third-Party Links

Our websites and communications may contain links to third-party platforms and services, including but not limited to Acuity Scheduling, Squarespace, Stripe, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Substack. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of third-party websites and encourage users to review their respective privacy policies.

8. Data Retention & Your Choices

We keep personal information only as long as needed for enrollment, communication, billing, safety, and legal or accounting purposes. You may request a copy of the information we hold about you, ask us to correct it, or ask us to delete it where we are not required to keep it. To make a request, email graham@puertatango.com with a clear subject line. Please allow 5–7 days for changes made outside of Acuity.

9. Photography of Minors

We will not photograph, record, or publish images of a minor without the explicit consent of a parent or legal guardian.

10. Policy Updates

Puerta al Tango reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy as needed. Any updates will be communicated through our website, email communications, or other appropriate channels.

Contact

If you have questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact graham@puertatango.com. Please use a clear and descriptive subject line so your inquiry may be addressed as efficiently as possible.

Sanctuary, Visibility & Consent

For many people, tango is more than a hobby. It is a place to learn, connect, heal, recharge, explore, and simply be themselves. Part of our commitment to a welcoming, respectful, and safe environment includes respecting each person’s right to decide how visible they wish to be.

Photography & Video

Please ask permission before photographing or recording individuals. Likewise, please obtain permission before posting, sharing, tagging, or publicly distributing images or videos that prominently feature another person. Not everyone wishes to appear on social media, websites, advertisements, or public-facing content. We respect those choices.

Personal Privacy

Each person arrives at tango with their own story. Some enjoy being photographed and participating in promotional materials. Others prefer privacy. Some are navigating personal challenges, professional considerations, family situations, health or safety concerns, or simply personal preferences regarding public visibility. All of these choices are valid. No explanation is required.

Consent & Visibility

Consent applies not only to movement and physical interaction, but also to visibility. Just as dancers have the right to choose how they move, they also have the right to choose how they appear — or do not appear — in photographs, videos, and public communications. A simple “I’d rather not” is always enough.

A Culture of Respect

When in doubt, ask. When permission is given, be grateful. When permission is declined, respect the answer and move on graciously. These small acts of consideration help preserve the trust, comfort, and sense of sanctuary that many people seek when they walk through the doors of Puerta al Tango.

Final Thoughts

Tango is a curious thing. It can be a hobby, an art, a social activity, a challenge, a passion, a refuge, a teacher, a source of friendship, or simply an excuse to listen to beautiful music while moving with another human being. For many of us, it becomes several of these things at once.

The policies, guidelines, and agreements in this handbook are not intended to create more rules. They exist to help create the conditions where learning, exploration, trust, safety, connection, and community can flourish. No document can anticipate every situation. No policy can replace kindness. No rule can substitute for awareness.

The strongest communities are not built upon enforcement. They are built upon communication, participation, respect, curiosity, generosity, and shared responsibility.

At Puerta al Tango, we strive to create a place where people feel welcome. A place where dancers are equals. A place where questions are encouraged. A place where consent matters. A place where people are free to learn at their own pace. A place where mistakes are viewed as opportunities. A place where both beginners and experienced dancers continue to grow. Most of all, we hope to create a place where people enjoy being together.

Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your participation. Thank you for your patience with yourself and others. Thank you for helping create the community you wish to be part of.

We look forward to sharing the dance with you.

Participation Waiver & Release

Thank you for choosing to participate in classes, workshops, private lessons, practicas, milongas, and other activities offered by Puerta al Tango and Graham Stanford (“Puerta al Tango”).

Our goal is to provide a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment in which students may study Argentine tango, movement, musicality, connection, and social dance. Participation in any physical activity involves inherent risks. Please read this agreement carefully before participating.

1. Voluntary Participation

I understand that my participation in classes, workshops, private lessons, social dances, and related activities offered by Puerta al Tango is entirely voluntary. I choose to participate of my own free will and accept responsibility for my decisions and actions while participating.

2. Age Confirmation

I confirm that I am at least eighteen (18) years of age. If I am under 18, I confirm that my parent or legal guardian has read this agreement, has signed the parent/guardian acknowledgment below, and is present and responsible for me throughout each activity, as described in “Age Requirements & Participation of Minors.”

3. Assumption of Risk

I understand that participation in Argentine tango and related movement activities involves inherent risks, including but not limited to: slips, trips, and falls; sprains, strains, and muscle injuries; injuries resulting from loss of balance; injuries resulting from contact with other participants; aggravation of pre-existing conditions; and other injuries commonly associated with physical activity.

I acknowledge that even when safety guidelines are followed, accidents and injuries may occur. I voluntarily assume all known and unknown risks associated with participation.

4. Health Acknowledgement

I affirm that I am physically and mentally capable of participating in dance activities. I understand that it is my responsibility to consult with a medical professional regarding any condition that may affect my ability to participate safely. I agree to discontinue participation and seek appropriate assistance if I experience pain, dizziness, illness, injury, or any condition that may compromise my safety or the safety of others.

5. Agreement to Follow Studio Safety Rules

I agree to follow all posted rules, guidance, and safety policies established by Puerta al Tango. I understand that these rules exist to help maintain a safe environment for all participants. I acknowledge that failure to follow safety rules may result in being asked to step back from an activity, a pause in participation, or the end of participation privileges. Studio safety rules are published in this handbook and incorporated into this agreement by reference.

6. Release of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, I release and discharge Puerta al Tango, Graham Stanford, instructors, assistants, volunteers, contractors, venue owners, and affiliated representatives from claims arising from ordinary negligence associated with my participation in activities offered by Puerta al Tango. This release includes claims for personal injury, property damage, illness, emotional distress, or other losses arising from participation in activities, except where prohibited by law.

7. Limits of This Release

This release applies to claims arising from ordinary negligence only. Nothing in this agreement releases, limits, or waives liability for gross negligence, recklessness, willful misconduct, or any liability that cannot be waived under New Mexico law. If any portion of this release is found unenforceable, the remaining portions remain in full effect.

8. Indemnification

I accept responsibility for my own actions during participation. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Puerta al Tango and its representatives from claims arising out of my own conduct, actions, or failure to follow established policies and safety procedures. This provision does not require me to indemnify Puerta al Tango for claims arising from its own negligence.

9. Ongoing Agreement

I understand that this agreement applies to all future participation in Puerta al Tango classes, workshops, private lessons, social dances, and events unless revoked or replaced by a newer agreement.

10. Severability

If any provision of this agreement is determined to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

11. Governing Law & Venue

This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of New Mexico. Any dispute arising under it shall be brought in the state courts located in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, unless a Puerta al Tango activity conducted elsewhere makes another venue appropriate.

12. Parent or Legal Guardian Acknowledgment (participants under 18)

As the parent or legal guardian of a minor participant, I confirm that I have read and understood this handbook, including this Participation Waiver & Release and the Studio Safety Rules. I am present and responsible for the minor throughout each activity. On behalf of myself and the minor, I voluntarily accept the inherent risks of participation and, to the fullest extent permitted by New Mexico law, I assume those risks and agree to the release and indemnification terms of this agreement as they apply to the minor’s participation. I understand a minor’s own acknowledgment is not sufficient and that my signature is required.