Kathak coaching

Originating in the Northern regions of India and transcending its borders to receive accolades from across the globe as a storytelling dance form, Kathak is distinguished by a wide range of contrasting elements: seamless spins that release into crisp poses, intricate graceful movements that layer with cascades of rhythmic footwork and subtle facial expressions -the origins of Kathak can be found in its Sanskrit root "katha" which means "story".

Specialized & detailed instruction for students with a substantial amount of previous Kathak dance experience (3-5 years) who want to continue refining and mastering Kathak dance in its traditional & professional form, in order to advance to highly competitive & performance levels as students or performing artists.

These sessions are designed for both dancers or musicians interested in expanding their rhythmic / "taal" understanding, improve their "bol paranth" (recitation of rhythmic syllables) and to increase their repertoire, as well as to explore rhythmic "riyaaz" (practice) as a form of mindfulness or meditation. As a plus, beginner to intermediate training on how to compose & improvisations are included.

These sessions are designed for dance students who have already received a general introduction to Kathak basics and would like to level up to intermediate technique. This includes polishing your "ang" (movements), learning more rhythmically complex compositions, as well as, new "taals". In addition, leveling up your Kathak will also include improving your storytelling skills. 

Take a deeper dive into the storytelling or dramatic aspect of Kathak which focuses on Rasa theory, detailing in facial expressions and more meaningful hand gestures. These sessions also include further instruction in understanding the layers of metaphor and symbolism within Thumri or Ghazal poetry. Furthermore, you will learn how to artfully tell your own stories and transform characters or emotions with the change of one look or one gesture!

Integrating the three universal elements of dance - Ang (grace), Taal (rhythm), and Abhinaya (expression), Kathak coaching offers the opportunity to learn ready-made choreographies, in either solo or group formats, traditional or contemporary fusion styles. Choreographies included traditional repertoire such as Taranas, Thumris, Ghazals, etc. as well as fusion pieces combining Kathak with Contemporary dance, Latin dance, Bellydance or other global dance forms.