Bharta Natyam is for girls and boys and is a great way for kids to exercise, develop confidence, and rhythms. It has a lot of benefits for the body and the mind.
It increases the strength of the body.
It improves flexibility, stamina and balance of the body. It helps concentration and mental focus. It increases the brain memory and dexterity. It gives a fascinating approach to the different rhythms of the Carnatic music.
It develops drama qualities: body language, gestures, facial expressions, breathing techniques.
It gives a sense of perseverance and discipline that will be useful during all their life.
It gives grace and artistic sensibility and finally offers spirituality and joy for each day of life.
A dance class always starts with a yoga session to warm up and keep the body stronger and more flexible.
The student starts by learning step by step all the different Adavus (technical dance units).
Then, the student discovers the different rythms and the language of the Mudras (hand gestures).
Slowly, he/she learns some very simple and short stories, and can later learn more complex and beautiful choreographies.
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR BHARATA NATYAM STUDENTS
- Have dedication and passion for Bharata Natyam
- Keep quiet and focused during the class
- Keep a regular practice at home
- Demonstrate respect for your teacher, parents and other students at all times.
- Arrive at least five minutes prior to your scheduled class. Latecomers may not be able to dance, due to the risk of injury.
- Present to class in a tidy and well-groomed manner with hair tied back neatly off the face.
- Bring a bottle of water and your Bharata Natyam book to every class.
- Attend class regularly.
- Honour prior commitments made to the dance by attending classes, rehearsals and performances above other social events.
- Serve as a role model to younger dancers at all times.
- Mobile phones should be switched off.
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARENTS
- Demonstrate respect for teacher, students, and other parents at all times.
- Take responsibility to read message updates and keep up-to-date with current activities and important information.
- Refrain from entering the dance class unless invited by the teacher.
- Understand and support the Bharata Natyam approach by encouraging children to show commitment and positivity while working to the best of their own ability.
- Refrain from taking photographs or video without permission.
- Raise any concerns with the teacher by making an appointment.
WHAT TO WEAR
White salwar kameez (top and pants) and blue dupatta for kids.
Shorts, jeans or skirts are not permitted.
CLASSES
Saturday
8.00 am – 9.00 am: Choreographies – Advanced adults
9.00 am – 10.00 am: Bharata Natyam basics and first Adavus for beginners (group 1)
10.00 am – 12.00 pm: Adavus – Intermediate and advanced (group 2)
Tuesday
5.00 pm – 6.00 pm: Choreographies – Intermediate (group 3)
6.00 pm – 7.00 pm: Choreographies – Advanced students who have completed a full Margam (group 4)
2023 DANCE SCHOOL TERM DATES
Term 1 | Tuesday 31 January – Saturday 1 April |
Term 2 | Tuesday 18 April – Saturday 24 June |
Term 3 | Tuesday 11 July – Saturday 16 September |
Term 4 | Tuesday 3 October – Saturday 9 December |