They live and breathe tango

Silver screen idol Rudolph Valentino did it. So did Al Pacino in “Scent of a Woman.” Even Robert Duvall dipped into the art form that originated in the smoky clubs of Argentina.

It’s tango -- the dance so passionate it’s often described as “making love with your clothes on.” If you’d like to try to wrap yourself around your partner like a python -- or watch others try -- the Carlos Gardel Tango Festival is the place to be Sunday.

Part of the NoHo Theatre & Arts Festival, which features free theater and music as well, the tango festival is produced and directed by Alfie Martin, an Argentina-born milonguero (tango fanatic). “If you know how to count, you can dance tango,” Martin says. “Our motto is, ‘Bring your shoes; we’ll make you dance.’ ”

The show starts with a 20-minute lesson from Sandor. He later performs with partner Parissa -- both are veterans of the Broadway show “Forever Tango” -- on a roster that includes 40 dancers. And for those needing some personal attention -- counting and moving your feet at the same time doesn’t come naturally to everyone, after all -- 18 dancers will be roaming the grounds to offer pointers.

But be careful. It’s addictive, Martin says. “Once you learn tango, you cannot live without it.”

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Carlos Gardel Tango Festival, at the NoHo Theatre & Arts Festival Center Stage,

Lankershim and Chandler boulevards, North Hollywood. Sunday, 3 to 5 p.m. Free. (818) 763-5273.