When it comes to showcasing Argentina's most famous dance, it takes more than two to tango, as Estampas Portenas proves with its internationally-acclaimed show, 'Tango Fire', which launches the Bermuda Festival at City Hall theatre this evening.

Combining the collective talents of an incredible group of dancers, vocalists and musicians, their dazzling presentation of the dance form that is the heart and soul of Argentina never fails to enthrall audiences wherever it is seen. Certainly, Bermuda audiences are prepared to be wowed, because all performances are sold out.

Estampas Portenas was founded in Buenos Aires in 1996 by the distinguished ballerina-choreographer Carolina Soler, who is its artistic director.

From the first year, when it toured China and presented over 60 successful shows, the company has gone on to earn an enviable international reputation with tours to such countries as Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States. Estampas Portenas has also appeared in festivals around the world, and tours extensively.

Critics have described the show variously as "fiery entertainment from a high-quality production", "dazzling and sophisticated", "sexual electricity crackling at the arch of an eyebrow, exploding at the twitch of a hip", "a glamorous display of agility, ardour and showmanship", and even "sex on legs".

Estampas Portenas is not a dance performance as such, although the dancers are an integral part of it. Rather, the show is based on the four, conservatoire-trained musicians of La Quartada Tango. Created in mid-2000 first as a bandoneon and piano duet (Gabriel Clenar and Hugh Satorre) and then as a trio with violinist (Marcelo Rebuffi), it was not until 2005 that it became a quartet with the addition of a double bassist (Gerardo Scaglione). Its repertoire includes traditional and modern tango, with diverse arrangements for male and female singers. The adaptations are created by Gabriel Clenar.

Given the popularity of Latin American dancing in Bermuda, the opening act of this year's Bermuda Festival is certain to be an unforgettable cultural adventure.

As always, opening night of each Bermuda Festival is a gala affair, and this year patrons are encouraged to enter into the spirit of the event by "dressing to kill, tango-style". After the performance, they are invited to enjoy drinks and canapés in the foyer.

¦ For ticket returns/further information contact the Bermuda Festival box office on Front Street at 296-5774 between noon and 2 p.m.