Curriculum at Kalapriya

Students as young as 5-6 years old are introduced to the joy of movement, music and imagination. The students explore the fundamentals of Bharata Natyam, all the while building up their self assurance, health, and coordination. Rhythmic patterns and story telling movements are introduced to the young dancers to explore the dance steps and theatrical expressions associated with Bharata Natyam

Formal training in dance begins at age 7 with suitable classes to develop the potential dancer throughout the teen years. An integrated syllabus of Bharata Natyam begins with a training in basic steps of tatta adauvs and Natta adauvs, hand gestures or hasta mudras, bhavas or facial expressions. Once the students have learnt the basic fundamentals of the Bharata Natyam technique, dances from the repertory are introduced to them, preparing them for their arangetram or solo dance debut. This highly formalized training offers the young dancer an opportunity to develop skill, grace, discipline, and a heightened sense of well-being. Utilizing this foundation, the students will be encouraged to develop their own movement vocabulary based on Bharata Natyam tradition.

Kalapriya also conducts courses for adults seeking professionalism in Bharata Natyam. These classes and workshops provide both theory and technique classes in Bharata Natyam along with yoga for body fitness, strength and vitality.

The dance school's special relationship to the dance company enables the school to enhance the growth of qualified advanced students with opportunities to perform. Fully trained advanced students in the school may be selected to join Kalapriya dance company or have the opportunity to appear in Kalapriya's new productions. In addition, at the close of each year Kalapriya presents an annual student showcase, where parents, family members, and friends are invited to attend performances by the students.