Art

Bharatanatyam & Kuchipudi

Nrityalaya sustains and develops the traditional art forms of India through the teaching and performance of Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi.  These styles of dances blend the dramatic beauty of space with energy and grace. Both styles use a storytelling form to depict a sacred or mythical text from ancient India.  The dancer’s feet, encircled with bells, create intricate patterns, while their face, hands, and arms express the story’s emotions.

Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam is a 2000 year old dance form, originating in the temples of Tamil Nadu, India. The dance is full of unfettered rhythmic movements and expressions, which is highly stylized and sophisticated in its technique. Bharatanatyam dance is often paired with Carnatic Music in many languages from the Indian subcontinent. Bharatanatyam’s foundation is based on Natya Sashtra and the Abhinaya Darpanam.  

Kuchipudi

Kuchipudi is the classical dance form from the South Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.  It derives its name from the village of Kuchelapuram, a small village about 65 kms from Vijayawada.  Kuchipudi was founded by Sidhendra Yogi in the 17th century. It is known for its graceful movements and its strong narrative.