CANASTA TANGO

The Canasta Tango is skated in Reversed Kilian position, and both partners skate the same steps. It is a dance consisting of forward edges only and introduces the tango rhythm to skaters at the preliminary test level.

Particular attention should be given to the skating of the chassé at Step 4, and the two slide chassés at Steps 7 and 10. The use of appropriate knee action on the slide chassés can help in expressing the tango rhythm.

Note that Step 14 may be started, optionally, with a cross stroke. A stroking action by the left foot should be evident and a toe push is to be avoided.

Neat footwork, good edges, tango expression, extension and good carriage should be maintained throughout the dance.

MUSIC RHYTHM: Tango 4/4
TEMPO: 26 four-beat measures per minute; 104 beats per minute
ISU MUSIC INTRODUCTION: 32 beats, 18.5 seconds
PATTERN-TIMING: 1 = :16; 2 = :32; 3 = :48; 4 = 1:05
DURATION: Test 2 = :32 Competition 3 = :48 Adult Competition 2 = :32
SKATER’S CHOICE TIMING: See Skater’s Choice Pattern Dance Timing Chart on usfgureskating.org under the “Technical Info” link
PATTERN: Set
TEST: Preliminary
INVENTOR: James B. Francis
FIRST PERFORMED: The University Skating Club, Toronto, Canada, 1951

CANASTA TANGO — SET PATTERN DANCE