Austin, TX — An East Austin cultural arts organization is celebrating two decades of dance, music and community with a little Hollywood glamour.
Esquina Tango will mark its 20th anniversary with its annual fundraiser, “Esquina Goes Hollywood: Lights, Camera, Fiesta!” on Saturday, Oct. 17, at its home at 209 Pedernales Street.
Guests are encouraged to dress in their best Hollywood-inspired looks and walk the red carpet before a night of live music, performances, and social dancing.
Two decades of dance and community
Founded in 2006, Esquina Tango is a Latino-led nonprofit cultural arts organization that offers programming ranging from Argentine tango and salsa to samba and Afro-Latin dance, along with live music, youth programming, wellness activities and bilingual workshops.
Organizers say the space has grown into more than a dance studio, serving as a gathering place where people from different backgrounds can connect through movement, music and cultural exchange.
“This celebration is about honoring everyone who has helped build Esquina over the years,” board member Martha Ramos Duffer said. “For 20 years, people have walked through our doors to dance, connect, learn, and feel at home.”
Lights, Camera, Fiesta!
The anniversary celebration begins with an exclusive VIP Sponsor Gala from 6 to 9 p.m., featuring performances, hors d’oeuvres, music, and other activities.
At 9 p.m., the celebration opens to everyone for ‘Lights, Camera, Fiesta!’ The party continues until midnight with live music, performances, and multiple dance floors.
Organizers describe the event as a meeting of classic Hollywood glamour and Austin’s Latin dance culture.
Supporting affordable arts programming
The event is Esquina Tango’s largest annual fundraiser.
Money raised supports the nonprofit’s affordable arts programming, compensation for artists and instructors, youth and senior classes, community workshops and future cultural initiatives.
Organizers say the goal is to continue creating accessible opportunities for people to experience Latin arts and culture for another generation.
Esquina Goes Hollywood takes place Saturday, Oct. 17, at Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales Street in East Austin.
The VIP Sponsor Gala runs from 6 to 9 p.m., followed by the community celebration from 9 p.m. to midnight.