Bharatanatyam Performance & Choreography
Available across United States
I choreograph and perform Bharatanatyam shows—solo, duet, or group—with live orchestra, original themes, and my students and family, for any event.
Pricing Guide
Solo Bharatanatyam Recital with Live Orchestra
Artist and Repertoire
- Principal Dancer: 90 minute solo recital by Acharya Indira Kadambi or a Senior Disciple.
- Traditional Margam: Full sequence execution including Alarippu, Jatiswaram, Varnam centerpiece, and Thillana.
- Thematic Focus: Repertoire customized based on Bhakti, Mythology, or philosophical concepts.
Live Musical Ensemble
- Vocal Support: Senior Carnatic vocalist accompaniment.
- Instrumental Unit: 3 to 4 piece live orchestra featuring Mridangam, Violin or Veena, and Flute.
- Rhythmic Conduction: Live Nattuvangam by a specialist.
- Sound Check: Includes a mandatory 60 to 90 minute technical sound check.
Aesthetics
- Costuming: Authentic Kanjeevaram silk dance sarees with traditional pleating.
- Temple Jewelry: Full set including Headset, Jhumkas, Mattal, Choker, Waist belt, and Ghungroos.
- Makeup: Professional classical dance makeup with pancake base and dramatic eye lining.
Thematic Group Ensemble Performance
Production Structure
- Cast: 1 Lead Dancer and 4 to 6 Ensemble Dancers from the Ambalam repertory.
- Concept: Thematic choreography exploring Hindu philosophy, Vedanta, or Nature.
- Staging: Intricate spatial formations and synchronized group movement designed for large stages.
Orchestration
- Expanded Ensemble: Full live orchestra with potential additions like special percussion or dual vocalists.
- Audio Integration: Professional mixing of live performance with high quality pre recorded audio stems if required.
Visual Elements
- Costumes: Color coded or character specific silk costumes designed for the specific production.
- Theatrical Props: Inclusion of set elements like fabric flows or idols as dictated by the script.
Bespoke Choreography & Training Package
Concept and Composition
- Choreography: Creation of a unique Bharatanatyam composition (Thillana, Padam, or short Varnam).
- Rhythmic Structure: Composition of Jathis sequences and Teermanams.
- Musical Score: Collaboration with musicians to set the Ragam and Talam (composition only).
Instruction and Training
- Direct Training: 10 to 12 hours of in person or virtual instruction to teach the nuances.
- Resources: Provision of written Nattuvangam script and a practice video guide.
Rights
- License: Performance rights to present the piece publicly with credit to the choreographer.
About Bharatanatyam Performance & Choreography
Why Bharatanatyam Feels Like Home
Bharatanatyam is not just what I do—it’s how I live. Every performance, every piece I choreograph, comes straight from my journey as a performer, teacher, and a student of life. My family dances with me, and so do my students at Ambalam. We aren’t just a troupe; we’re one big family with dance at our heart.
My Way of Choreographing Stories
When I choreograph, I want each step to make you feel something real. My work is known for sharp movements, bold stage presence, and a habit of digging deep into ideas that matter. Whether it’s a Margam choreography for a solo, a duet with my daughter, or a Bharatanatyam group production, I look for stories that connect.
Performances for Every Stage
We perform at all kinds of events—small or big, personal or public. Here’s what you might see:
- Solo shows (sometimes my own, sometimes featuring my top students)
- Duets like “Matru” (about motherhood, performed with my daughter)
- Ensemble productions such as “KOHAM” (think: grand themes and big teams)
- New themes—sometimes built on old poetry, sometimes on what’s going on in our world
Every major work is backed by a live orchestra Bharatanatyam show, making the atmosphere truly special.
The Soul of What We Do
Guru-Shishya Parampara in dance is everything for me. My students grow into strong performers, and watching them take the stage is honestly the best part of my job. For us, Bharatanatyam is a way to keep our culture alive and kicking—no filters, just real connection.
Meet your Expert
Indira Kadambi
174 connects in last 3 months
My Story
I’m Indira. Dance is woven into every bit of my life—family, home, even the air at Ambalam. My husband sings, my kids play and do Nattuvangam, we all create together. Sometimes the universe just surprises you, like the day a giant Nataraja statue landed at my door—no warning, just magic. When I’m not dancing, you’ll find me hiking with students or watching lions in Kenya. Art, nature, family—they’re all one for me.
My Work
Bharatanatyam & More at Ambalam - I perform solo and with my family ensemble, choreograph new works, and guide students. We also teach Carnatic music and Yoga.
Guru & Mentor - I take my role as Acharya seriously. Watching my students grow as dancers is my biggest joy.
Family Ensemble - Performing with my husband, son, daughter-in-law, and senior disciples—our Ambalam Ensemble creates conceptual dance choreography.
For Rasikas - Audience presence is precious. Let’s keep the vibe pure—save the claps for the end, enjoy the journey.
