Lya Elcagu
August 12-18 | Missoula
We are thrilled to bring Lya Elcagu back to Missoula in 2025. We have a whole week of exciting events planned for the community including 2 guided practicas, 4 classes, 1 special topics class, 1 milonga, and a BBQ + milonga at Second Chance Yurt. Private lessons are available throughout Lya’s stay in Missoula running through the 18th.
Schedule
- August 13, Wednesday at Amy Ragsdale’s Studio (1042 Monroe st.)
- 6:00-8:00pm Guided Practica: Fun Crosses
- August 14, Thursday at Spirit of Peace
- 7:00-8:30pm Class: The 3 captivating ingredients of Tango: The embrace, the connection, and the walk.
- August 15, Friday at Spirit of Peace
- 6:00-9:00pm Guided Practi-longa: Tango A La Carte
- August 16, Saturday at Spirit of Peace
- 1:00-2:30pm Class: Effortless Boleos
- 3:00-4:30pm Class: Circular Movements for Close Embrace
- 8-11pm Milonga
- August 17, Sunday at Spirit of Peace
- 1:00-2:30pm Special Topics Class: Leading for Follows
- 3:00-4:30pm Class: Switch off and ON!
- 6pm BBQ potluck + milonga at Second Chance Yurt
BBQ Potluck + Milonga
Sunday’s bbq potluck and milonga are free and will be hosted at Second Chance Yurt in Potomac. Dinner at 6ish, dancing at 7ish.
Pricing and Registration
- Classes/Special Topics Class – $25/person ($18 for students)
- Practicas – $15/person ($12 for students)
- Milonga – $15/person ($12 for students)
- BBQ + Milonga – Free!
Dancers can pay online or at the door with cash or credit card.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are available on a first-come-first-serve basis starting Tuesday, 8/12 through Monday, 8/18. All privates will take place at Spirit of Peace unless otherwise specified. Students should plan to pay for private lessons in cash at the time of the lesson.
Visit Lya’s online calendar to schedule your private lesson or email Rachel Dierken, rachel.dierken@gmail.com, with questions.
Private lesson prices:
- $100/person
- $150/couple
- $90/person/lesson if 3+ scheduled
Semi-Privates (max 4 couples/8 people)
- $50/person
- $100/couple
Venues
Classes and private lessons will occur at the following locations:
- Amy Ragsdale’s Rattlesnake Studio, 1042 Monroe St. (studio is behind main house, do not park in front of the house or in the Greenough Park parking lot)
- Spirit of Peace Center, 506 Toole Ave.
- Second Chance Yurt, Potomac (directions)
Instructor Bio
Lya Elcagu brings deep expertise, passion, and a unique approach to every lesson.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, join her on the journey of discovering organic and joyful movement. She is not only a master of tango but also a certified yoga teacher (500+hrs CYT certified). This dual expertise allows her to bring a unique perspective to her teaching, emphasizing the importance of alignment, anatomy and body awareness in movement.
Her methodology empowers dancers to connect with their own bodies and their partners on a deeper level, enhancing technique, connection, ease and expression.
- Semifinalist in the Campeonato de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires 2023
- Finalist in the Campeonato para Mujeres en el rol Conductor 2018
- Taught at DNI Tango School in Buenos Aires – one of the most respected Argentine tango schools in the world
- Studied and worked with world-renowned tango masters, including Dana Frigoli, Fernando Galera, Virginia Vasconi, Pablo Alvarez, and more!
Organizers
Rachel Dierken & Brian Williams with support from Tango Missoula. Contact Rachel at rachel.dierken@gmail.com with questions.