Foundation — about 2 years
- Adavus (basic steps)
- Two dances
- Development of a strong foundation in dance
Bharatanatyam
Indian classical dance from South India
Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form from South India in which movement and music come together. Through gestures, facial expression and movement, the dancer brings stories, including those from Indian mythology, to life.
It is an ancient art form that also has much to offer in today’s world. In a time when so much around us moves quickly, Bharatanatyam invites focus and inner attention.
For children, it offers a special way to discover and experience Indian culture. For adults, Bharatanatyam can open up a new world in which dance becomes much more than learning movement and technique.
Our tradition
Bharatha Sastra Ratna
Guru Kancheevaram Ellappa Mudaliar
Natya Manjari
Sri Vinayaka stands in the tradition of the Kanchipuram Ellappa Mudaliar Bani. Within this Bani, Sitrawatie Bonoo studied in India with Smt. Lakshmi Vishwanathan, Sri M.D. Venkatesh and Smt. Geeta Narayanan.
Teaching
My approach to teaching
What continues to inspire me most is the journey I make with each student.
I consider the first stage especially important because this is where the foundation is established — not only for Bharatanatyam, but for dance in general.
Bharatanatyam requires attention and regular practice. Gradually, the different aspects of the dance come together and the student discovers more of what the art form has to offer.
“For me, this is where the beauty of Bharatanatyam lies: developing towards a complete form of dance in which movement, music and inner experience become one.”
The training
The training in three stages
Margam — about 2 years
- Jatiswaram
- Shabdam
- Varnam
- Slokam
- Padam
- Tillana
Arangetram
After completing the foundation and the margam, the student can prepare for the arangetram: the debut as a Bharatanatyam performing artist.
More about ArangetramDuring their Bharatanatyam training, students can take dance examinations and receive certificates for completed stages of their training.
Classes and practical information
Group classes on Saturday
- Beginners — years 1 and 2all ages10:00 – 12:00
- Advanced — from year 3all ages12:00 – 14:00
Classes include dance, tala and theory. Private lessons and tailor-made lessons are also possible.
Contact
Registration or more information?
For registration or further information: Sitrawatie Bonoo, telephone 06 20534824.