At Starkids Preschool, we are proud to offer the Nataraja Natyapalli Bharatanatyam Classical Dance Program, an enriching journey into one of India’s oldest and most respected classical dance forms. Bharatanatyam, which originated in the temples of Tamil Nadu, is a unique blend of rhythm, music, and expression, deeply rooted in spirituality and tradition. Through this program, we aim to introduce young learners to the beauty, grace, and discipline of Bharatanatyam, helping them develop not only as dancers but also as confident, expressive individuals.
Bharatanatyam is much more than a dance form; it is a holistic experience that engages both the body and mind. Here are some of the benefits your child will enjoy from learning Bharatanatyam:
Cultural and Artistic Appreciation: Bharatanatyam helps children connect with India’s rich cultural heritage. It is a wonderful way to introduce young minds to the importance of Indian classical music, storytelling through dance, and spiritual practices.
Physical Fitness: The dynamic footwork, controlled body postures, and graceful hand movements in Bharatanatyam promote strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Children also gain better posture and muscle tone.
Emotional Expression: Bharatanatyam is a powerful medium for expressing emotions, through intricate hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), and body movements. This helps children develop emotional intelligence and a better understanding of how to express feelings creatively.
Discipline and Focus: The structured nature of Bharatanatyam teaches children the importance of dedication, hard work, and perseverance. The art form requires continuous practice and attention to detail, which builds patience and a focused mindset.
Boosting Confidence: Performing in front of an audience helps students overcome stage fright and build confidence. The experience of showcasing their skills at events or performances nurtures self-esteem and self-expression.
Our Nataraja Natyapalli Bharatanatyam Classical Dance Program is designed to take students on an inspiring journey, from the basics to more advanced movements, allowing them to experience the full richness of Bharatanatyam. Our program covers:
Introduction to Bharatanatyam: Children begin with the basic foundational movements, adavus (footwork), hand gestures (mudras), and body postures. These basic movements form the cornerstone of the dance and allow children to build strength and coordination.
Storytelling through Dance: Bharatanatyam is often used to narrate myths, legends, and devotional stories. Our program introduces students to the concept of storytelling through dance, helping them convey emotions and tales with grace and expressiveness.
Facial Expressions (Abhinaya): Bharatanatyam emphasizes the use of facial expressions to convey emotions. Students will learn the different expressions used to represent various emotions such as joy, love, anger, and devotion.
Rhythm and Music: Students are introduced to the rhythm (tala) and the music of Bharatanatyam. This includes understanding different beat cycles, and how music and dance are intricately intertwined.
Choreographed Pieces: As students progress, they will learn choreographed pieces, including the iconic Alarippu, Jatiswaram, Varnam, and Padams, which are fundamental to Bharatanatyam performances.
Performing Skills: Students will gain experience performing in front of audiences, which will help them develop confidence, stage presence, and poise. They will have opportunities to perform at school events, cultural festivals, and annual celebrations.
Experienced Teachers: Our instructors are highly skilled and trained in Bharatanatyam, with years of experience in teaching and performing the dance form. They are passionate about imparting the knowledge of Bharatanatyam in an engaging and age-appropriate manner.
Structured and Progressive Curriculum: Our curriculum is structured to guide students from beginner to advanced levels. As they progress, they will take on more complex movements and choreography, ensuring continuous improvement.
Personalized Attention: We focus on individual development, ensuring that each child receives the attention they need to master their skills, with a low student-teacher ratio.
Holistic Learning: Bharatanatyam encourages not just physical growth, but also mental development, emotional maturity, and cultural awareness. It is an excellent way to teach children valuable life skills, such as discipline, focus, and creativity.
Safe Learning Environment: All dance classes are held in a CCTV-monitored, air-conditioned room that ensures safety and comfort while fostering an inspiring learning environment.
Cultural Connection: Bharatanatyam connects children with the timeless traditions of India, helping them appreciate and embrace their cultural heritage.
Physical and Emotional Development: The dance form encourages growth in physical health, emotional intelligence, and artistic expression.
Improved Academic Skills: Studies have shown that learning dance enhances concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills, which translates into better academic performance.
Confidence and Self-Esteem: Dance nurtures self-confidence through performance, helping children build strong, healthy self-esteem.
Community and Belonging: The dance program also builds a sense of community and teamwork, as students collaborate and perform together.
If you want your child to be part of an enriching cultural experience, Starkids Preschool offers the perfect environment to foster their interest in Bharatanatyam. With professional guidance, personalized attention, and a structured program, your child will embark on a fulfilling journey into the world of classical dance.
Contact us today to enroll your child in the Nataraja Natyapalli Bharatanatyam Classical Dance Program and give them the chance to explore their creativity, improve their physical health, and connect with a beautiful tradition!