The 2020 DanzainFiera: A Fair of all Dance Styles

Feb. 20 – 23: DANZAINFIERA. Fortezza da Basso. Open Thursday 3 – 8 pm; Friday, Saturday and Sunday 9 am – 8 pm. Admission: 1 day €18, 4 days €45; free for children under 8; €12 for 8 – 10 year olds.

The four-day annual event, Danzainfiera, is the hub of all things dance in Florence. The fair brings together more than 20,000 dancers to learn, perform and compete. Dancers from novice to professional can enjoy drop-in classes, exhibitions, meet-and-greets and competitions. The event combines the performance and business aspects of the dance world, as attendees can learn about how to succeed in the industry.

PERFORMANCES

Now in its 15th edition, Danzafiera offers 14 separate pavilions with diverse programs. The official grand opening of the extravaganza kicks off on Thursday, Feb. 20, at 4:30 pm, complete with shows and performances from companies such as Lyric Dance Company, KAOS Ballet of Florence, Lucan Ballet, Atzewi Dance Company, and Siena Ballet. The fun continues on Friday with a presentation of contemporary dance (2 pm) and on Sunday with Se Baila!, an event dedicated to Latin and Caribbean couples dances (1:30 pm). Additionally, check out parades of each of the various styles on each day and experience the celebration of diverse movement.

LESSONS

At Italy’s biggest international dance festival there’s something for everyone. The festival places a large influence on diversity of styles, so perhaps try out a lesson in Aerial (Thursday, 3 pm), floor work (Thursday, 5:15 pm), or Bollywood dance (Saturday, 4:20 pm). In a special installment, the entire day of Sunday, Feb. 23 is dedicated to the Tango. It’s a great opportunity for beginners to strut their stuff, as live musicians accompany new dancers in group lessons. Then, check out the Tango masters show at 7 pm to see how the pros do it.

Or if classics are more to your liking, check out a modern dance master class (Friday, 5 pm and Saturday 9:30 am) or the ballet class for teachers and their students (Saturday, 1:15 pm).

EXCEPTIONAL INSTRUCTORS

Each day also offers incredible opportunities to meet with distinguished dance guests.  (sabrina medler)