What You Will Learn

This course covers Bharatanatyam in the Kalakshetra style, progressing from foundational techniques to advanced repertoire and performance elements. Students will learn both practical dance training and essential theoretical concepts related to Bharatanatyam.

Learn the fundamentals of Bharatanatyam

Understand basic posture, body alignment, and movement techniques
Practice foundational Adavus (basic dance steps)
Develop coordination, balance, and rhythmic movement
Learn correct execution of footwork and hand movements

Master Bharatanatyam techniques

Learn Hastas (hand gestures) and their meanings
Practice eye movements, neck movements, and body coordination
Understand rhythm and timing in dance performance
Develop precision in movement and expression

Study Abhinaya and expressive dance

Learn facial expressions and emotional portrayal
Understand the use of gestures in storytelling
Practice conveying meaning through movement and expression
Explore the relationship between music, rhythm, and expression

Understand Bharatanatyam theory

Learn the history and evolution of Bharatanatyam
Study the basics of the Natyashastra
Understand the Navarasas (nine emotions)
Learn Tala (rhythmic cycles) and rhythm structures
Become familiar with Bharatanatyam terminology and concepts

Learn the traditional Bharatanatyam repertoire

Study Shlokam and its presentation
Learn Pushpanjali as an invocatory dance piece
Practice Alarippu and its rhythmic patterns
Perform Jatiswaram with focus on pure dance movements
Learn Shabdam and expressive storytelling elements
Study Keerthanam and Varnam in greater detail
Practice Padam with emphasis on Abhinaya
Learn Thillana with advanced rhythmic sequences
Conclude with Mangalam as the traditional ending piece

Develop performance skills

Understand stage presentation techniques
Learn how different repertoire items are performed
Practice combining rhythm, technique, and expression
Build a structured understanding of classical dance performance

The course progresses from basic Adavus and dance techniques to advanced repertoire, Abhinaya, Tala, and Bharatanatyam theory, providing a comprehensive foundation in the Kalakshetra style of Bharatanatyam.

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Bharthnatyam class in kalashetra style