Lasithi Tourists to Learn Secrets of Cretan Dance at Workshop

In efforts to meet the demands of restless tourists seeking unique cultural experiences, the Vilaeti Traditional Guesthouse in Lasithi, Crete, will be hosting a series of seminars on traditional Cretan dance titled “Geranos” on June 16-20.

Organized by the Cretan Cultural Association and the Expression of Cretan Dances Troupe (of brothers Giannis and Giorgos Megalakakis), the 1st Experiential Workshop of Cretan Dances and Tradition – Geranos will take place across Crete highlighting the dance traditions unique to each of its four prefectures.

The five-day event – with professional as well as local dancers, instrumentalists and instructors – will feature among others the  ancient “Geranos” (crane) dance, which legend has it was performed by Theseus on the sacred island of Delos together with the Athenian youth he had saved from the Minotaur.

Cretan sector professionals underline the importance of dance as a “carrier” of tradition and culture, which could develop into a main tourism “incentive”.

The event is being held under the auspices of the culture and tourism ministries, the Hellenic-American Chamber of Tourism and the World Council of Cretans.