Denise Anderson

Denise Anderson’s journey in dance began at the age of six, rooted in the disciplined world of classical ballet. She trained in the Cecchetti method and later earned a Diploma in Ballet from the UCT School of Dance in 1989, majoring in ballet and contemporary dance. As a professional dancer, she performed in numerous productions, which deepened her understanding of music, expression, and the power of movement as art.

Alongside her performance career, Denise has built a successful Pilates practice, spanning more than 30 years. Her work has focused on rehabilitation and intelligent movement for dancers, athletes, and those seeking a more conscious connection to their bodies. This lifelong experience in movement education and body awareness has shaped her unique approach to teaching Argentine Tango.

Denise began her tango journey in 2012, drawn to the emotional subtlety and musical depth of the Milonguera style. She studied closely with her long-time friend,  mentor, and teacher, Mark Hoeben, as well as renowned tango maestro Erik Jorrisen—both of whom shaped her perspective on tango.

In 2015, she began dancing in partnership with James Kipling. Together, they have explored the art of tango through shared practice, performance, and ongoing study. 

In 2025, Denise and James founded Recuerdo Tango—a space dedicated to sharing the beauty and soul of Argentine Tango, and preserving the teaching that has been passed onto them. 

Recuerdo means “to remember” in Spanish, and their dancing honours tango’s emotional depth, musicality, and heritage. In addition to classes, they also host warm and welcoming milongas in the Cape Town CBD and in the Southern Suburbs—creating evocative and elegant settings where the spirit of tango truly comes alive.

Whether you’re new to tango or rediscovering dance after many years, Denise’s passion lies in helping others connect deeply with the dance and in sharing the quiet beauty and artistry of this timeless form.

Email: move@tva.co.za