Teaching artists skilled in evidence-based practices demonstrate the art of teaching in and through the arts. This module features Rachita Menon, a classical Indian dancer.
Creative Movements Using Bharatanatyam
| The participants will learn to use their bodies as well as their minds and improve their flexibility, dexterity, and mobility. They will use hand gestures and body positions from Bharatanatyam, an ancient classical dance style that originated in the temples of Southern India. This program (called “Natyacise”) will enable all participants to exercise in a creative fashion at their convenience while learning and understanding the cultural significance of this style from India. This program can be practiced in any open space with a yoga mat, and modified with a chair. |
Artist: Rachita Menon
Art Form: Creative movements using Bharatanatyam (South Indian Classical dance) also called “Natyacise”
Materials: A yoga mat and a chair (if required for modifications).
This program can be practiced in any open space.
Module Content
Meet the Artist: Rachita
Rachita is a professional Bharatanatyam artist with over 35 years of experience in this classical dance style from Southern India.
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Attention: Bharatanatyam Dance
Participants will be introduced to Bharatanatyam dance with a performance by Rachita.
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Connection: Historical Context of India
Participants will be familiarized with a brief overview of the cultural traditions of India, the birthplace of Bharatanatyam.
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Creation: Learning Hand Gestures
Participants will be guided through a clear instructional video to form various hand gestures in Bharatanatyam.
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Completion: Full Body Stretch
Participants will be reminded of the objectives as the lesson concludes with a full-body stretch.
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Formative Assessment
Using your journal, reflect on these assessment questions.
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