Stir Q&A: The man behind the masked avenger in the new Corona Tango video
An all-star group of local “creative types” spread the messages of mask-wearing, foodbank support, and the importance of laughing
The Corona Tango gang busts a move in Yaletown. Photo by Ken Stewart Photography
EVER DODGED oncoming pedestrians on the sidewalk or in the grocery store—even while wearing the all-important three-layer mask?
That “dance” inspired one of the funniest Vancouver-crafted public-service messages on Youtube right now.
The video is set to the swoony tune “Corona Tango” (“I don the mask, I do the dance, Corono Tango-o-o”…”Get out of my way or corona may stay!”). Hair slicked back into a ponytail and wearing a scarlet blazer, Gar Fuego dodges traffic and socially distances himself from a troupe of face-shield-wearing dancers.
For the full story behind the video, Stir tracked down Gary Durban, who happens to know the mysterious masked star of the video, Gar Fuego, very well.
“John Paul Holt of Avantgarde hair salon was instrumental in the look and feel. Gary Loux shot it and edited it,” he told Stir. “There were so many creative people involved and everyone volunteered their time. We want to raise awareness around wearing a mask but we are also asking people who can to think about giving back during these stressful times. Donate to your local foodbank or your favourite charity.”
Read on for more deets on the shoot. And, remember, as the “Corona Tango” says, “If you care, try not to share, don’t touch my mango!”
How did this project come together? What about these strange times made you think of the tango?
The song was written by Colin Wienmaster, who was inspired after hearing Lynda Steele (CKNW) say people were doing a "Corona Tango" in order to navigate the physical distance while walking downtown. He brought the demo to me and we produced the song. And a song needs a video. Fortunately for us, Covid -19 has left a lot of creative types with free time on their hands so we pulled together an all-star team.
Tell us about the mysterious Gar Fuego?
Gar Fuego loves to dance and sing and spread the word that people should Be Safe, Be Calm, and Wear a mask! He is a masked avenger! Also, he always travels with a dancing entourage just in case a moment requires dancing and singing to get his message across. LOL
You guys cut a mean rug—did Harbour Dance folks help with that?
Viktoria Langton, who is a renowned Canadian choreographer, came on board and talked to Pam of Harbour Dance and they joined us. I can tell you that anyone can look good with that team surrounding you. I learned a few new steps for sure.
Gar Fuego, in a rare moment unmasked.
Was it surreal shooting this? Were you getting some weird stares from mask-wearing passersby?
It was quite surreal. We shot in Yaletown on an early morning in July, we had dancers and rollerbladers, a camera crew, a smoke machine, masks, and so much glitter. There were quite a few stunned people on their way to work that could not figure out what we were up to. But Gar Fuego loves attention, so it was great for him!
Where can I get that Gar Fuego mask on the statue in the video?
Ah the magic mask! We are considering making a short run of masks if there is demand. Maybe Gar Fuego has a perfume and clothing line in his future? Who knows, lol. I still can't shake the tune out of my head so hopefully it sticks with others as well, and at the very least it puts a smile on people's faces for a moment as we can all use a bit of joy during these unsettling times.
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