When Launceston circle dancer Julie Walpole heard the UK teacher was coming to Tasmania, she jumped at the chance for him to hold a workshop in the city.

``Andy is involved in teaching circle dancing in Scotland, and is very highly regarded,'' Ms Walpole said.

Held at the Pilgrim Uniting Church Hall, the workshop introduced dancers to many international steps.

Mr Bettis was happy to share the traditions with Launceston.

``I hope to initiate an experience of what it feels like to dance in a community setting, where it's about the feeling of community spirit,'' he said.

Circle dances, done in a circle while holding hands, come from around the globe, with countries such as Greece, Romania, Bulgaria and Israel counting them among their history.

Originally, they were performed to mark special occasions such as rites of passages and the change of seasons, often invoking an element of spirituality or meditation.