If this is your first time hearing about ecstatic dance, you’re not alone. Though it’s a growing movement, the practice is newer to the St. Petersburg area–and redefines what you might think about traditional dancing.
For one, it doesn’t require any rehearsals or pre-planned moves–so you don’t have to brush up on your jazz squares or moonwalks beforehand. The goal is to connect with the music through movement, and how you do that is up to you. Some people simply tap their foot to the beat, while others completely let loose and see where the moment takes them.
“I’m only opening this venue because of the support I’ve received from the ecstatic dance community in St. Pete,” said Roan. “Roots to Crown will be, what I believe is, the first edance-focused venue in the state.”
There are three commonly accepted rules in the ecstatic dance community: no drugs or alcohol, no talking, and no judgment.
“Ecstatic dance requires a place that is safe and secure, with immersive sound,” Roan said. So Roots to Crown wants to turn up the music, serve up some kava, and generate some good vibes.