Dance in Brittany

Good to know about dancing in Brittany

Breton dance holds a special place. It is passed on by cercles celtiques, groups that perform the dances and costumes of their home area on stage, and by associations that hold classes all year so that newcomers can learn the steps before joining a fest-noz, the traditional Breton dance night. Each part of Brittany has its own dances: a gavotte from the central hills is not danced like a ridée from around Vannes. Alongside this repertoire, folk balls mix Breton dances with couple dances from elsewhere, such as the schottische, the mazurka or the waltz, and dance schools teach salsa, rock 'n' roll and tango.

Beginners' workshops are often held at weekends or during the holidays, over an afternoon or a full day, and sometimes end with a ball where you can put what you have just learnt into practice. Weekly classes generally start again in September, and most associations are happy to welcome beginners for a trial session.

There is no need to bring a partner: most Breton dances are danced in a line or a circle. Wear flexible shoes that hold your feet well and bring something to drink. To find a ball or a workshop near you, the site's search shows upcoming dates around an address or your current location, on a map and in a list.