I have been learning tango for about four months and recently went to my first milonga. (I danced salsa for four years so I was used to going to dances). I sat and waited for someone to dance with me most of the night until luckily one guy, who I go to class with, asked me to dance. Otherwise I would have sat all night. It seems that the people who have been going for a long time all have regular partners and I don't seem to be able to be using the right signals. What can I do?

AThis can be difficult especially if you go alone and are new. There is a way of signalling in tango called el cabaceo. It is basically the old-fashioned way of a man signally to a woman across the room, by either looking at her, nodding his head or extending his hand. It is not widely used in Australia - they probably think it is a bit old-fashioned if they know about it. As you get to know more people and your tango improves you will undoubtedly get more dances. Some of the women recommend sitting close to the dance floor, in an unobstructed place, and looking friendly! (always helps). You may find Maleva's answer about how to get more dancers is helpful. Maleva is actually Jennifer Bratt, a teacher from New York, who has visited and taught in Australia.