Behind the Scenes: Preparation for Bharatanatyam
A beautiful performance is built long before the curtain rises. From the meticulous detail of traditional stage makeup to the discipline of daily rehearsals, this is how we prepare for the magic of Bharatanatyam.
Our senior students rehearsing for the upcoming Annual Day. The studio is buzzing with enthusiasm as they work together to perfect their formations and choreography.
A quick look at what goes on behind a dancer’s photoshoot. Here is Nikita Sanup getting her hair and makeup done, a meticulous process that transforms her for the camera.
9.5-year-old Abhishikta getting ready for her photoshoot. She sat patiently through the two-hour process, showing the discipline that is essential for a young dancer.
Ridhima getting her makeup done in Kerala for her Arangetram. The transformation is a key part of the performance, helping the dancer embody the characters they portray.
Organizing basic makeup kits for all our dancers. We ensure every student has the right materials, like pancake foundation, eyeliner, and bindis, for their stage performances.
I feel so blessed listening to these beautiful artists during a music practice session for an Arangetram. The live music is what breathes life into the dance.
No matter how many programs you organize, it is still a lot of work. I am lucky to have students who help ensure everything goes smoothly, from backstage management to final checks.
For them, it's about the stunning costume. For me, it's ensuring every thread and accessory is perfect, so nothing distracts from their performance. This is my quiet responsibility.
For them, it's donning the costume and looking stunning. For me, it's making sure every thread, every accessory is perfect, so nothing distracts from their performance.
For them, it's the thrill of performing for friends and family. For me, it's the quiet responsibility of ensuring they feel supported and look confident on stage.
About Behind the Stage: Practice & Preparation
Getting ready for the stage is an art in itself. Whether it is organizing makeup kits or ensuring every accessory is perfectly placed, I view these small details as part of my quiet responsibility as your Guru. It is not just about looking the part; it is about ensuring you feel supported and confident enough to perform without any distraction.
The journey of a dancer is often seen only during the final performance, but the real work happens in the studio and behind the stage. For me, teaching Bharatanatyam is about bridging that gap between the hard work of practice and the joy of the final showcase.
The Discipline of Practice
Whether you are a child or an adult, the process remains the same. My approach is rooted in the discipline I learned from legends like Adyar K. Lakshman sir. It is about showing up—I still remember the surprise on my Guru's face when I returned to class the day after my Arangetram, asking, 'Enna innaikke vanduttiya?' (You came today itself?). That level of dedication is what I instill in my students. We don't rush the process; we build it, repetition by repetition.
More Than Just Dance
Preparation involves many layers:
- Stage Readiness: From conducting makeup workshops to ensure everyone knows how to handle the traditional aesthetic, to overseeing costume checks so not a single thread is out of place.
- Music & Rhythm: I believe the live orchestra breathes life into the dance. We spend hours in rehearsals, aligning the dancer's movements with the nuances of the Mridangam and Flute.
- Logistical Support: For events like the Annual Day or the Salangai Pooja, my role is to manage the chaos so the dancers can focus on their art. It is about ensuring the lighting, the audio, and the backstage flow allow the performance to shine.
Every student has their own pace. Some need more time with the basics, others are ready for the Margam. My goal is to ensure that when you step under the lights, you feel ready, prepared, and entirely yourself.
Preetha Arun
I never planned on teaching, but life had other ideas, and now I have spent 25 years helping dancers find their rhythm. Whether you are taking your first steps or preparing for a solo debut, I am here to guide you with the same care and discipline my Gurus gave me.
Find the right dance support
You can search for specific services or milestones within my dance academy.
More from Stage Performance & Event Choreography by Preetha Arun