Ritmu Roots Festival - Laboratorio di Ballo Siciliano

Among the oldest Sicilian dance forms are u ballettu, a jolla, a fasola, and u chiovu—considered 'archaic' dances in the style of the southern tarantella. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the dances prevalent in aristocratic salons across Europe, such as mazurkas, polkas, waltzes, and scotis, made their way to Sicily. These dances were adopted by the less affluent classes and blended with agro-pastoral dances. Today, many communities continue to practice these dances, each enriched by variations that reflect the unique character of the locale and its people. The dance workshop showcases some of these dances found in different parts of Sicily, featuring figurative dances performed in pairs, threes, or in a circle. By exploring and sharing these traditional dance forms, the workshop aims to preserve and celebrate the cultural richness and diversity inherent in Sicilian dance, offering participants a glimpse into the tradition by partaking in song and dance.

Photo Credit: Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

Workshop Leaders: I Casentuli

Workshop Level: All levels.

Accessibility: This venue is not accessible to persons using a wheelchair.