Generally Sardana performers prefer that those who join in know the dance. In many towns local Sardana groups will hold a few instruction meetings. Look for posters and announcements at bulletin boards in Tapas bars and elsewhere.

The Sardana is an emotionally-charged dance. During Franco’s reign, the Catalan people were not allowed to dance the Sardana because the dance represents the Catalonian culture as well as the people’s traditional independence.

Sometimes I see people join in. Some know what they are doing, while others do not and therefore break up the rhythm of the group.

Is it OK to join in? At first the dance looks deceptively simple, but it really appears to be complex and difficult to learn.