Supported by research · Heart led · Est. 2013

Moving together
through
Parkinson's.

A warm welcoming community where movement, music and the embrace of Tango help improve the quality of life of those living with Parkinson's.

500+ Classes since 2013
13+ Years running
From $15 Per class
Two participants in a close tango embrace during class
A participant and partner focused in the tango frame, mid-class
Wednesday · in class

A warm welcoming community where movement, music and the embrace of Tango help improve the quality of life of those living with Parkinson's.

Rina Sawaya dancing tango in close embrace
Rina Sawaya Founder & CEO
Meet the founder

A daughter's response to a father's diagnosis.

When Rina’s father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, she was teaching and dancing Tango in Tokyo. Determined to help, she began researching movement-based therapies and discovered that Argentine tango was being used in Argentina as a therapeutic intervention for Parkinson’s.
This discovery changed everything. After moving back to Australia, Rina became involved in clinical research studies exploring tango’s effectiveness. In 2013, the concept of Tango for Parkinson’s (TFP) first came alive in a research study. Since then, she has led weekly classes and continued contributing to research in the field. What began as a daughter’s response has become a growing community of hope, movement, and connection.
  • MA Interpreting & Translation
  • BA International Politics, Economics & Business
  • Owner & Principal Instructor Tango Esencia Studio
In Rina's words

Watch her tell the story herself.

A short film on why the program exists, and what happens in the room.

Video thumbnail — Rina Sawaya speaking about Tango for Parkinson's
Documentary
Tango for Parkinson's — with Rina Sawaya

Short story by ABC Lateline (documentary)

Weekly schedule

Find a class near you.

Every class welcomes carers and partners to join the fun! No dance experience needed.

Monday
10:15am – 11:15am
Lower Templestowe Community Centre
293-297 Manningham Rd, Templestowe Lower VIC 3107
With Rina Sawaya
$15 for individual/ $25 for couple

All welcome. Please consult your GP before attending your first session. Please book to attend your first session so that we know to expect you. General ability to be able to follow the instructor's instructions required as well to be able to work with ot

Wednesday
1:30pm – 2:30pm
Avenue Neighbourhood House - Blackburn South
87 Eley Rd, Blackburn South VIC 3130
With Rina Sawaya
$15 for individual/ $25 for couple

All welcome. Please consult your GP before attending your first session. Please book to attend your first session so that we know to expect you. General ability to be able to follow instructor's instructions required as well as ability to work with others

The five pillars

One dance, five measurable changes.

Each class is designed around the five outcomes that matter most to people living with Parkinson's — supported by peer-reviewed research.

01 / Walking & Gait

Longer strides. Steadier rhythm.

  • Improves the gait and walking rhythm
  • Enhances coordination and fluidity of movement

  • Encourages purposeful transfer of weight in walking

  • Supports initiation of movement

02 / Balance & Stability

Balance & Stability

  • Strengthens postural control
  • Improves weight shifting and body awareness

  • Enhances reaction time and stability

  • Improves balance and coordination

03 / Body Conditioning

Strength & Fitness

  • Builds lower body and core strength

  • Improves cardiovascular fitness

  • Enhances flexibility and joint mobility

  • Supports endurance and stamina

04 / Cognitives & Emotional Benefits

Cognitive & Emotional Benefits

  • Stimulates attention, memory, and focus

  • Boosts confidence and self-esteem

  • Reduces anxiety and depression

  • Encourages mindfulness and presence

05 / Social Connection

Social Connection

  • Reduces isolation and loneliness

  • Builds a strong sense of community and belonging

  • Provides peer support in a joyful environment

  • Strengthens connections between participants, carers and volunteers

Since 2013

Over a decade of weekly classes and people finding their rhythm again.

Founded by Rina Sawaya after her father's diagnosis, Tango for Parkinson's has grown from one class into a community that touches lives across Melbourne — and now, increasingly, beyond.
0+
TFP Classes since 2013
Participant stories

In their own words...

Over a decade of weekly classes, one community. These are the voices that keep us going.

"TFP is such a wonderful initiative. It is not only great physical exercise but also stimulates your brain. There is wonderful camaraderie among the group, with a lot of laughs every session. Totally recommend TFP! " Steve and Amanda
SA
Steve and Amanda
Class Participants
Friends of ours had been attending Tango for Parkinson’s for a number of few years and had encouraged us to come along, telling us how much fun it was. We were both very reluctant- to be honest we didn’t think it would be “our thing”. Class Participants
A
Annonymous
Class Participants
“Before I started Tango for Parkinson’s, my walking had become slow and uncertain, and I was losing confidence. After a few months, I noticed I was walking more freely and with better balance. But the biggest change has been how I feel about myself. The classes are joyful, supportive, and full of laughter. I don’t feel defined by Parkinson’s when I’m dancing — I feel capable again.” Class Participants
A
Annonymous
Class participants
“Tango for Parkinson’s has been life-changing for both my husband and me. His balance and posture have improved, but just as importantly, he looks forward to every class. It’s not therapy that feels like work — it’s something we genuinely enjoy. The friendships we’ve made have helped us feel less alone on this journey.”
AA
Annonymous
Class Participants
“I was nervous when I first joined because I’d never danced before and worried about keeping up. The instructors made me feel safe and welcome from day one. My strength and coordination have improved, and I’ve gained confidence in everyday activities like walking outdoors. The sense of community is incredible — it’s the highlight of my week.” Class Participant
A
Annonymous
Class Participant