How much does a tarantella show for a wedding cost? What affects the price
"How much does a tarantella show for a wedding cost?" is one of the first questions we get from couples and wedding planners. It's a fair question, but the honest answer is: it depends. A short performance during welcome drinks in a Sorrento garden and a full show during dinner on Capri are not priced the same. In this article we explain what makes the price go up or down, so you can send clearer requests and compare quotes properly.
If you're new to it: the tarantella sorrentina is the traditional folk dance of Sorrento, a lively, joyful couples' dance. Sorrento Folk is a cultural association founded in 2011 by Francesco Di Fiore, with around ten couples of dancers; you can get to know us on our about us page.
How the price is set
We do not have a fixed price list: every show is tailored to your wedding, and the cost is set in a personalised quote based on the factors below. To get an exact figure, simply request a quote.
What affects the price
- Number of dancing couples: a few couples are enough for an intimate moment, but in a large space with many guests a bigger group makes a very different impression. More dancers also means more costumes, more travel and more coordination.
- Length of the show: a short appearance as you arrive is not the same as a full show with several tarantellas in a row, such as the Tarantella Tasso or the Tarantella Masaniello.
- Number of moments: you can choose a single slot or several appearances on the day, for example welcome drinks and the cake cutting. Each extra slot means the group spends more time at the venue, breaks included.
- Location and travel: Sorrento, Sant'Agnello, Piano di Sorrento and Meta are close by; Positano, Amalfi, Ravello or Capri involve longer journeys and, for the islands, a ferry. On request we also perform elsewhere in Italy and abroad.
- Recorded or live music: with recorded music you only need the dancers and a sound system; with live musicians (for example mandolin, guitar and tambourines) the group grows and the logistics change.
- Season and day: the date, the time of year and the day of the week can affect availability, and therefore the quote.
- Characters and extras: if you'd like traditional figures such as the Pazzariello or Pulcinella, or a special way of involving your guests, tell us from the start.
What to ask before comparing quotes
Two quotes with different figures often describe two different shows. Before comparing them, always ask:
- how many couples will dance, and for how long;
- whether the music is recorded or live, and who brings the sound system;
- whether travel is included;
- what costumes the dancers wear. Ours are traditional Sorrento costumes, hand-sewn by local seamstresses, as described on our costumes page;
- whether guests get involved. At our shows the dancers invite guests to play tamburelli and nacchere (tambourines and castanets), the traditional instruments, and to try a few steps;
- how much space is needed and what the group needs at the venue (somewhere to change, access, arrival times).
With these answers you can compare like with like, and know exactly what your guests are going to see.
How to request an accurate quote
The more you tell us, the faster and more precise your quote will be. Please include:
- the date of your wedding and, if you know it, the approximate time of the show;
- the venue: name and address, and whether the dancing is indoors or outdoors;
- the moment or moments you'd like (welcome drinks, grand entrance, dinner, cake cutting, surprise);
- the number of guests and, if you like, where they're travelling from;
- music: recorded or live;
- your wedding planner's contact details, if you have one, so we can coordinate with them directly.
You can use our request a quote form or message us on WhatsApp at +39 339 594 5561. Your request will be handled by Daniela Esposito, who looks after bookings for the group. We usually reply quickly.
One last tip: if your wedding is in high season, get in touch as soon as your date and venue are confirmed. The earlier we know, the easier it is to guarantee the number of couples and the format you want.
For ideas on where the tarantella fits into your day, have a look at our tarantella for weddings page.
