The Senseler Plattler Association from Volders: “For us, tradition is, above all, a celebration of life”
For over four decades, the Senseler Volders Traditional Costume Society has been dedicated to keeping traditions, customs and a sense of community alive. Founded in 1981 and with its own children’s group since 1984, the association now has around 130 members – of whom about 60 are adults and 70 are children – who practise Schuhplattler together every week.
A conversation with the two youth lead dancers, Leonie Lassl and Simon Klotz, from the Senseler Volders Traditional Costume Association about tradition, community and the big anniversary in 2026.
Leonie, Simon, when you see you both in your traditional costumes, you immediately sense that there’s more to it than just a beautiful outfit. What makes the ‘Schuachplattler’ in Volders so special?
Leonie: It’s that sense of identity and our roots. The foundation for this is our work with the younger generation. Our members come directly from Volders and the surrounding area. The fact that we have so many young people ensures that our cultural heritage doesn’t disappear into the archives, but remains at the heart of village life.
And on top of that, you’re all very smartly dressed.
Leonie: Yes, that’s true. We, the ladies in the association, wear the elegant Innsbruck festive costume, whilst our girls wear the Puster Valley everyday dirndl. The men and boys wear the Volders men’s traditional costume with great pride. This variety of traditional costumes combines different regional influences and reflects our rich Tyrolean tradition – it is a living heritage that we not only preserve but actively pass on.
The Schuhplatteln is always the centrepiece of your performances. To onlookers, it often looks like child’s play – but what’s really behind it?
Simon (laughs): It’s easy to be fooled! The Platteln is a true art form and requires considerable stamina, precision and a bloody good sense of rhythm. Everything has to come together with pinpoint accuracy. When the audience then gets carried away with enthusiasm, you know what you’ve been training for.
But the people of Sensel don’t just dance; they also keep traditions alive. What does that all involve?
Leonie: We make a conscious effort to follow the cycle of the year. This ranges from baking Easter pretzels together to the many church festivals, such as the patron saint’s day on 15 August. For us, tradition means a sense of community, responsibility and respect. Club life is seen as something positive from a very young age. The children in particular love taking part in the events. Not only does this help nurture the next generation of dancers, it also forges friendships that last a lifetime.
You can find you at almost every important event in the village, whether it’s processions, balls or Tyrolean evenings. Why is the association so important to Volders?
Simon: We’re an integral part of cultural life. Our refreshment stands at the festivals are places where people meet. Locals and visitors come together to enjoy genuine Tyrolean hospitality – free from clichés, but full of passion.
The year 2026 is just around the corner. What can we expect then?
Leonie: We’ll have something very special to celebrate: 45 years of the Senseler Volders Traditional Costume Association!
Simon: Exactly, it’ll be a big anniversary year. The absolute highlight will be the district ball here in Volders. It’ll be the perfect moment to show just how timeless and vibrant our traditions still are, even after decades. We’re already looking forward to raising a glass together with the whole village and our guests!
