Traditional Indian Dance Workshops & Mentorship
Whether you are a student preparing for your Rangapravesha or an artist looking to deepen your craft, my workshops go beyond just steps. We explore the history, rhythm, and soul behind every movement.
The invitation for my senior student Dharitri's Rangapravesha, "Stree Satva." It is a moment of immense pride to present a student's debut performance.
With my student on the day of her Rangapravesha. Mentoring the next generation of artists is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.
With my Bharatanatyam Guru Smt. Sheela Chandrasekhar and my folk mentor Sri Hi Chi Borlingaiya during a field trip to Janapada Loka. I believe in connecting my students with my own gurus.
Conducting a two-day workshop on 'Choreography and embodying movement techniques in theatre' for diploma students at Vijaynagar Bimba.
A Nattuvanga workshop in progress at Kappanna Angala. I regularly host workshops to share the rhythmic and theoretical knowledge of our art forms.
A student seeking blessings from the orchestra during her Rangapravesha. This is a moment of deep respect for the musicians who are integral to the performance.
A student seeking my blessings on stage. The Guru-Shishya parampara is the foundation of our artistic lineage.
About this collection
My training is rooted in the Guru-Shishya parampara, where the relationship between teacher and student is just as important as the technique itself. At my studio in JP Nagar or during our field trips to historical sites like Somanathapura, we do not just memorize choreography. We study the rhythm of Nattuvanga, the historical context of the pieces, and the discipline required to present a successful debut performance.
Learning dance is a journey of understanding our roots. When I conduct workshops, whether for theatre diploma students or aspiring classical dancers, I bring in the same academic rigor I apply to my own research for my book 'Nrutya Beru'.
What to Expect
- Technique & History: We break down the movement techniques, but we also talk about the 'why'. We analyze sculptures at temples, discuss the history of our art forms, and learn how to look for evidence beyond popular myths. I want you to walk away not just as a better dancer, but as a more informed artist.
- Mentorship: Preparing for a Rangapravesha is a momentous occasion. It is not just about the stage performance; it is a spiritual and physical transformation. I guide my students through this entire process, from the first day of training to the final bow on stage, teaching them the humility and gratitude that the tradition demands.
- Beyond the Studio: I believe classrooms can be limiting. I organize study trips to places like Janapada Loka and Somanathapura to help students see the living history of our land. We observe, we discuss, and sometimes we even get told off by guards for sitting on the temple floors to take notes, which always turns into a funny story we share later.
My goal is to create a space where you feel free to ask questions, challenge your own limits, and find your own 'voice' in the arts. Whether you are coming for a short-term workshop or long-term mentorship, come with an open mind.
Sneha Kappanna
I am Sneha, and I see dance as a conversation with the universe. I do not just teach choreography, I mentor students to find their own voice in tradition, whether we are working in the studio or out in the field.
Looking for different guidance?
Explore my other cultural programs and theatre sessions.
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