Alessandra Belloni

Rhythm is the Cure: A Healing Dance and Percussion Workshop Saturdays, April 26, May 3, May 102 pm – 5 pm Experience the healing power of tarantella rhythms and dance with internationally renowned singer, percussionist, and teacher, Alessandra Belloni, Artist in Residence at the Cathedral. Rhythm is the Cure is an intensive healing workshop featuring Southern Italian ritual dances used as music and dance therapy for centuries throughout the Mediterranean. Participants will learn the unique style of tambourine playing and the ancient healing trance dance of the tarantella, used to cure the mythical bite of the tarantula. The workshop focuses on releasing blockages of energies, breaking the imaginary "spider web " of the subconscious mind. The workshops begin with a short lecture on the Black Madonna and the tarantella trance-dance. Participants will see films of Alessandra Belloni’s field research of the drumming rituals and procession in Southern Italy.All workshop sessions will be in Synod Hall on the Cathedral Close. These workshops will explore the following ritual dances and rhythms: TAMMORRIATA - This beautiful, sensual dance from Naples is performed with castanets to the rhythm of the large drum, called Tammorra. The movements and rhythm are set to an African beat played in 4/4 time. Usually done during the rituals held in the summer in honor of the Black Madonna. THE PIZZICA TARANTATA - The wild 6/8 rhythm of the Pizzica is played on medium size tambourines, producing a trance-like state beneficial for spiritual healing. Alessandra will lead workshop participants in a circle dance, creating "spider-like" movements on the ground, releasing stress and blockages of sexual energy, as well as traumas and blocked emotions. RITMO E DANZA DI SAN ROCCO (SPINNING DANCE) - This dance, originating in Calabria during the Middle Ages, was danced during the time of the plague to help people release the overpowering fear of death. Due to the trance-inducing movements and incessant spinning, many people enter ecstatic states during this dance, similar to Whirling Dervish ceremonies. Registration Fee$225 for three workshop sessions, $75 for each session.To register, contact education@stjohndivine.org or call (212) 932-7325. For more about trance-dance and Alessandra Belloni, visit the video links below: Living Shamanism - The Tarantella TranceFilm by Manex IbarPassword: Shaman Percussion lesson and interview with Alessandra Belloni Film by Lee Free, Brooklyn Bike Beat Pizzica rhythm and lesson with Alessandra BelloniFilm by Lee Free, Brooklyn Bike Beat For all of the Cathedral's workshops, guided visits, programs and more, visit the Calendar.