Tasso Theater (Teatro Tasso)

The basics

The Tasso Theater is the performance venue for the Sorrento Amarcord show, which focuses on the traditional folk music, dance, and tales of the Neapolitan region. Book tickets in advance to secure a seat. Local songs and traditional dances, such as the tarantella, are performed by actors and dancers in colorful costumes, with some parts of the performance inviting audience participation.

Things to know before you go

• Tasso Theater is a must for visitors who want to gain a deeper understanding of the local Neapolitan culture.
• The Sorrento Amarcord show is performed in Italian, but the visual nature of the performance makes it relatively easy for audience members who don't speak Italian to follow the story.
• Shuttle services can be arranged with the venue for a fee.

How to get there

The Tasso Theater is situated in the historic center of Sorrento on Piazza Sant’Antonino. From Naples, follow the A3 motorway toward Salerno, taking the Castellammare di Stabia exit. From Sorrento port, ride the Cooperative Tasso bus to Piazza Sant’Antonino. From Sorrento train station, make the 5-minute walk via Corso Italia.

When to get there

The Sorrento Amarcord shows take place every Wednesday and Saturday night between May and October. Other events, such as jazz performances, take place at the theater as part of the M’illumino d’Inverno winter festival.

Tarantella

Native to southern Italy, the tarantella is a frantic folk dance known for its racing tempo, with the beat often speeding up as the song goes on. A courtship dance, the tarantella is typically performed by a couple and features accompanying music by instruments such as mandolin, guitar, or accordion.

Ways to explore

Tasso Theater is one of Sorrento’s busiest cultural spots, offering a year-round program that ranges from musicals celebrating Neapolitan song traditions to local theater productions and literary events. Depending on the time of year, it’s worth checking the online schedule and booking tickets in advance. While the theater is located on Piazza Sant’Antonino, just steps from Piazza Tasso in the heart of Sorrento, it’s rarely visited as a tourist attraction—arrive a little before the show to explore the piazza and secure a good seat.

Accessibility

The theater has been modernized and the venue is accessible, with space for wheelchairs and accessible restrooms.

Age limits

While the theater doesn’t have official age restrictions, most shows are intended for adult audiences.

What to pack

Opera glasses, cash for dinner and drink tips (for dinner, €1 is enough)

What to wear

Smart casual clothing, scarf or jacket for intermission

Not allowed

Outside voices, large bags, disruptive photography

Amenities

Dinner, drinks, terrace

Address

The Tasso Theater is in the heart of Sorrento’s historic center, just a brief stroll from Piazza Tasso. It’s an easy walk from most areas of the town.

Driving

From Naples, take the A3/E45 south toward Salerno and exit toward Castellammare di Stabia on the SS145. Continue into Sorrento and follow Corso Italia toward Piazza Sant’Antonino and Piazza Tasso, stopping short of the historic center, where parking is limited and traffic can be heavier.

Public transportation

From Naples’ main train station, take the Circumvesuviana line to Sorrento. Exit the station and walk west along Corso Italia, then turn left onto Via Luigi de Maio and continue to Piazza Sant’Antonino. You can also take SITA buses from most towns along the Amalfi Coast to Piazza Tasso.

Best times to visit

Go on the evening of a performance, arriving 20–30 minutes early to explore Piazza Sant’Antonino and Piazza Tasso, and to get settled in the theater.

Best days to visit

Check the performance schedule (cartellone) —shows often take place on weekends or evenings, while weekdays may be less crowded during matinees or smaller events.

Best months to visit

Summer typically brings a fuller schedule of performances, and stepping inside for a show offers a welcome respite from the heat, even in the evening.

Special events

In September, the Tasso hosts the Lemonjazz Festival, a multi-day celebration of Spanish, Neapolitan, and Afro-Cuban music. Vesuvio: The Legend of Love is a regularly performed show combining Neapolitan folklore with music and dance.