Classes & Workshops
Learning Kuchipudi
Kuchipudi classical dance merges yoga, music, literature, and drama with the joy of movement. Students begin with foundational lessons which require reinforcement for the first few years. These are the alphabet of the dance language and are yoga for the body and mind. From there they are taught items of increasing complexity that develop their physical agility and expressive scope. After dedicated training involving years of rigorous practice and performance, when the teacher deems ready, students complete their Rangapravesam, or ‘solo introduction to the stage' where they display their physical discipline, beauty of movement, and expressive depth.
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Through this art, above all, Akhila seeks to nurture disciplined minds and loving hearts in her students, which will allow them to lead happy and faith-filled lives.
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SEE CLASS DESCRIPTIONS BELOW
Beginner's Kuchipudi Class (Children, Teens)
Students are prepared by first learning the basic classical dance posture. At this point they start the basic steps which are rhythmic exercises for the feet and hands. After steps they learn jathis, or patterns of steps set to varying time measures. All classes include a systematic introduction of yoga, pranayama, and storytelling. Attention is given to inculcating early on virtues like respect, compassion, and persistence.
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Classes can be taken for cultural enrichment as well as for performance level training. These classes are also a strong foundation for students interested in any dance form.
Beginner's Kuchipudi Class (Adults)
Adults will learn the graceful dance of the hands and feet through basic lessons in Kuchipudi. These classes will re-introduce the joy of being a student into otherwise busy adult lives. Students will also gain a daily practice which creates mental relaxation and physical molding. Adult classes are supplemented by group activities that allow for expression and create community.
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Classes can be taken for cultural enrichment as well as for performance level training.
Commision a Workshop!
Akhila is available for lec-dems/workshops giving children or adults an introduction to Kuchipudi dance. Workshops can also be centered on specific aspects of Kuchipudi (as an example storytelling) or on Kuchipudi as it relates to other aspects of life like mental health or and mindfulness. Workshops can also be tailored for the occasion.