The Academy offers Bharatanatyam, Kuchupudi, Mohiniyattam, and Indian Folk Dances.
Group and private Bharatanatyam classes are available for both adults and children ages 4.5 and up, with a special emphasis on fostering a deep connection to the art form.
For children who aspire to be shishyas (students), starting in a group setting is highly recommended. In a group class, students benefit from a sense of community, where they learn collaboration and mutual support. The group dynamic encourages social interaction, helping children build confidence, communication skills, and the ability to work as a team. Additionally, students can learn by observing their peers and gaining inspiration from the variety of styles, abilities, and progress within the class. The energy of a group environment motivates regular participation and fosters growth in a fun, dynamic setting.
Course Curriculum
Practical Classes:
All students begin with practical classes, focusing on the foundational adavu (steps) of Bharatanatyam. These classes emphasize developing the essential vocabulary of Natya (dance) movements, ensuring proper alignment, body control, and technique from the very beginning.
Repertory Classes:
Once students have mastered the foundational adavus and demonstrated a solid understanding of techniques, they advance to repertory classes. Here, students expand their dance repertoire, learning both solo and group choreography. These classes prepare students for performance-level work and the development of dance productions, cultivating the skills needed to become well-rounded dancers.
Theory Classes:
Theory plays an integral role in a dancer’s education, complementing practical training to deepen the student’s understanding of Bharatanatyam. Natya theory is taught alongside practical classes, with a focus on key elements such as Thalam (rhythm) and Sollukettu (rhythmic dance language). Emphasis is placed on the connection between these elements and their application to dance, enhancing both rhythm comprehension and overall performance quality.
This comprehensive approach ensures that each student receives a well-rounded education, grounded in both theory and practice, with the ultimate goal of developing both technical proficiency and expressive artistry in Bharatanatyam.