VAKA | Færeyskur hringdans

Faroese Dance Workshop with Sharon Weiss and Kristian Blak

In this workshop, participants discover the Faroese chain dance — a circle dance that has survived in an unbroken tradition since medieval times and remains deeply woven into Faroese culture and language. The session covers the dance’s historical origins and how it has been taught and passed down to the present day, along with an introduction to the rhythmic and melodic character of the ballads. Participants will learn simple steps and refrains and dance 2–3 excerpts from the Faroese dance repertoire, with the story of each ballad explained before it’s danced. Everyone in the room takes part.

The workshop is led by Sharon Weiss and Kristian Blak from the Faroe Islands. As part of the groups Spælimenninir and Kvonn, Sharon has played recorder around the world since the 1970s. She is a dedicated folk dancer and instructor who has worked to bring both Faroese dance and folk dance into schools. Kristian is a composer and pianist involved in a wide range of musical activities — he composes for international classical ensembles, performs locally, and tours internationally as a musician and band leader with jazz, folk, and world music groups.

VAKA Folk Arts Festival takes place from September 13–19, 2026, in Kópavogur. The festival brings together music, dance, craft, storytelling, and poetry in a varied programme for curious guests of all ages. Whether you come to listen, learn, dance, sing, create, or simply enjoy being together, you’ll have the chance to discover a wide range of folk arts in a new way — and become part of them. VAKA is committed to making its events as accessible as possible. That’s why most events offer three different price tiers, allowing each guest to choose the price that suits them best. Secure your festival pass for access to all festival events.

All information about the festival can be found at www.vakareykjavik.is and on Vökufélagið’s social media channels.