Although folklore claims the Tarantella dance received its name from its ability to cure the deadly bite of the tarantula spider, in actuality the name is derived from the place of its beginning, Taranto, Italy. Popular at traditional Italian weddings, the circle-dance is lightly stepped and flirtatious, making it ideal for a lively wedding reception. According to SicilianCulture.com, the Tarantella music can be heard during the classic film The Godfather.
To perform the Tarantella dance, you will need a partner as well as a tambourine. The dance consists of several step sequences and combinations.
Beginning the Tarantella
- The dance begins with both couples facing front (not each other).
- Alternating left and right, cross one foot in front of the other beginning right.
- Instead of crossing, now alternate placing each foot out to the side, left and right.
- Repeat this sequence while the woman shakes the tambourine in a circle in front of her.
The Tarantella Step
- Keep hands on the hips and remain facing front.
- Kick the right foot low and to the front, then drop the body's weight onto it.
- Touch the ball of the left foot to the ground then the right foot to the ground.
- Begin the Tarantella Step now starting with a left kick.
- Repeat this step sequence left and right three more times, traveling backwards.
The Tarantella Do-Si-Do
- Begin this sequence facing the partner
- The woman holds the tambourine and taps the instrument to her left shoulder, left hip then right hip, in a triangular pattern. Repeat then tap the tambourine twice to the left hand.
- The couples dance the Tarantella Step through twice, beginning with the right foot and traveling forward so they pass each other's right shoulder.
- Repeat the Tarantella Step twice more, this time traveling backwards. This sequence is called the Do-Si-Do.
The Man Takes the Tambourine
- Kneeling on his right knee, he taps the tambourine seven times on his hip. The eighth count of music is a double-hit. Repeat once.
- While the man taps the tambourine, the woman places her hands on her hips and performs eight Tarantella Steps in place.
- As the man now shakes the tambourine above his head, the woman dances eight more Tarantella Steps in a circle around him.
The Group Dances in a Circle
- Two couples face each other, clasping each others right hands in the center. In the left hands of the women are the tambourines.
- Rotating in a clockwise circle, in unison, all the couples perform eight Tarantella Steps. On the eighth count, tap the tambourine.
- Each individual turns to now hold left hands in the center of the circle. All dancers perform eight more Tarantella Steps, now rotating in the opposite direction. Tap the tambourine on the last count.
Learning the Tarantella
As with most new dances, begin learning the footwork for the dance before worrying about hand and arm motions or the tambourine. Begin by going through the steps slowly and without the music. Once the footwork has been mastered, add the arm motions and speed up the tempo. When comfortable, try practicing with the music. Finally, both partners should attempt performing the dance with each other and with the music.
Michelle Aveyard - Michelle is a freelance writer who has worked in journalism, public relations and marketing. She has published numerous articles both in ...
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