2. Dance Performance-Education Alchemy
Below is an excerpt video from an education-presentation of dance in a college.
Imagine a dance form that is meditative and spiritual,
yet fun-filled and entertaining
Think of a dance form that meticulously moves every part, every joint,
And every muscle of the face and body in an aesthetic and structured manner
Visualize a dance form that not only teaches Indian values
but also Math and physics with high focus-building techniques
All these and much more beyond your imagination
Is the dance form called Bharata-naatyam
Practiced for thousands of years in India
A lot of wisdom has gone into its creation
What is Bharata-naatyam?
It is a unique dance form that most have never seen before.
With exotic costumes, jewelry and finger painting, it is a visual treat.
It is one of the 7 classical dance forms
To be learned from a Guru for some years.
Its beauty is in its symmetry, geometry, dynamism and rhythm
using all parts of the body to express emotions and stories
It encourages people to see a world of joy and beauty
A world filled with peace and harmony.
It enables viewers to look inwards
connecting to their own true selves
It is a manifestation of the celebration of the “eternal universe”
Through the celebration of the beauty of the body, mind and spirit.
It represents the eternal longing of the individual soul
To unite with the Supreme Soul
Representing the very dance of the cosmos
It is more than just a visual treat
It is educational and holistic,
and a fun way to play with speed, rhythm and music
It is intricate, complex yet graceful,
Is there a medium of communication more powerful than this?
What are the benefits of Bharata-naatyam?
–> This dance form is elevating and fun, bringing joy and peace
–> It improves physical and mental health
–> It develops focus, coordination, balance and fine motor skills
–> It helps in easily understanding concepts in math, science, music, history and English
–> It makes the culture of India come alive, showcasing her diversity and values
What to Expect when Shanthi performs
–> Shanthi starts mostly with Activity 1 India-Life-Education Alchemy, a short presentation on India, describing the diversity and culture using a Map of India.
–>The Activity 2 includes a short introduction to the dance forms of India showing pictures
–>Then, Shanthi performs some Bharatanatyam items, explaining each song and its meaning. The items give a sampling of the many aspects – Complex foot work, Various emotions, Role play and drama.
–> She gives 1 minute samples of other classical dance forms of India. She also does a 30 second costume change to show a folk dance which is very different from the classical dances.
–> At the end, the audience is invited to participate however they choose from Activity 3 – Activity 12 or even just trying out some Hasta Mudras (hand gestures) in the seated position.