©Ulli Ernitz

In Tarantella, group dancing plays a very important role. In this respect it is very different not only to the more usual practice of dancing in couples but also to the more individualistic dancing prevalent in clubs.

Towards the end of the workshop, we try out some of the different group dancing styles. In fact, this emphasis on the communal is paramount in both variants of Tarantella, in its healing form as well as its more joyful and less respectful Carnival versions.

The individual dancer is important only as a member of that dancing community and the dances, even when performed individually or in couples, demonstrate cohesion, joy and belonging, and the healing power of community.