Beldanzando - International Folk Group Gathering

Beldanzando: Folk dance in the heart of the Nebrodi

Beldanzando - International Folk Group Gathering is one of the most cherished events of the summer in Ficarra, a charming hilltop village in the Nebrodi mountains in the province of Messina, Sicily. Every year, in the heart of the town, folk groups from Italy and abroad gather for a grand celebration of traditional dance, featuring authentic costumes, live music, and choreography that reflects the identity of their respective regions.

Origins and Significance

The festival was founded in 2002 by Annamaria Amitrano Savarese, an anthropologist at the University of Palermo, and Nino Indaimo, president of the "M.M. Mancuso" Folk Study Center and the driving force behind the "I Nebrodi" Folk Group of Ficarra. Beldanzando is conceived as an original "discourse" on dance, viewed not merely as a performance but as a form of body language, entertainment, and a tool for recovering folk memory. The evening masterfully blends cultural rigor with a lively town-square celebration, with the creators themselves often hosting the event over the years.

Groups and Performances

The stage hosts a mix of local ensembles, young dancers from the Nebrodi area, and international groups bringing their own traditions to Ficarra. In past editions, audiences have admired groups from distant lands showcasing their "dances of war and love." Alongside the adult performers, younger generations also take the stage, ensuring the transmission of choreographic heritage to the future.

The Città di Ficarra Award

A central moment of the evening is the presentation of the Città di Ficarra Award, a recognition established through an agreement between the Municipality of Ficarra and the "I Nebrodi" Folk Group. The award is presented annually to an individual who has distinguished themselves in their professional field or through social and cultural contributions, often with ties to the Nebrodi region. The event also holds deep emotional significance, as it is dedicated to the memory of a young member of the group and is linked to charitable initiatives.

The Atmosphere of a Summer Night

Beldanzando traditionally takes place in Piazza Umberto I, though some editions have been held in the scenic setting of the ruins of the Franciscan "Cento Archi" convent, which provides a stunning backdrop for a night of music and dance. As part of the Estate Ficarra (Ficarra Summer) program, which features dozens of events between July and September, the festival is a perfect opportunity to discover an authentic Nebrodi village and experience folklore as a collective, free, and open celebration.