The Approach to Classes
Beeja runs regular bharatantyam, bollywood, folk and wellness classes for children and adults. These classes are inclusive and fun. The classes reflect Beeja’s creative director, Anusha Subramanyam’s, interdisciplinary and contemplative approach to dance.
Beeja bring some of the best tutors to teach the forms while supporting and developing local talent.
The classes are supported by a fantastic team of volunteers who help in co ordinating and organising these classes.
Beeja students are actively encouraged to participate in a range of performance opportunities from theatre spaces to outdoor and cultural festivals that take place through out the year for all the dance forms.
Beeja Annual Day – 20th July 2024
About the Styles
Bharatanatyam
The practise of bharatanatyam evolved in a spiritual, social environment in the temples of Southern India. A classical dance style, it is characterised by its precise geometry and grounded body position. A perfect blend of the abstract movement (nritta) and the story telling narrative (nritya) – eloquent hand gestures, intricate foot work and emotive expression mirror the music in the south Indian classical carnatic style.
Bharatanatyam’s origins can be traced to the Tamil literary texts of the Sangam age (500 BC onwards). It was reenergised and restructured in late 18th century and again in early 20 century from near extinction.
Rukmini Devi, one of the leading figures in the revival of bharatanatyam established Kalakshetra in Chennai, India. The institute was set up to teach and research the dance form and music. Anusha, Beeja’s director, is an alumnus of this prestigious college.
Bharatantyam, now, is one of the major international classical forms.
Bollywood
A somewhat controversial term, ‘Bollywood’ dance refers to the dance that is integral to the Indian film genre. The name became synonymous with the Bombay, now Mumbai, film industry where the majority of the films are made. But there are many regional film making centre in India but the name is a shorthand for the uniquely Indian film element, the dance. Bollywood dance is the amalgamation of a huge variety of dance forms and styles ranging from the classical to folk dance forms as well as international and contemporary dance styles.
Its infectious joy and unique mix of techniques have found place in the repertoire of many major international popular artists and recognition like the Oscars.
Folk and Semi Classical
India and its South Asian neighbouring countries are home to many folk and semi classical forms. Unlike the classical forms they are practised socially. The movements can range from simple to sophisticated. The music and the story play an integral part to the dance. They are suitable for those who wish to enjoy practising Indian dance styles without getting into the rigour that the classical forms demand.
Bharatanatyam Classes
Beginners Bharatanatyam for kids – 4 years onwards
| Time |
Every Sunday from 12.30 to 1.30pm Current Term |
| Location | CVA, Centrale shoping center, Upper mall |
Bharatanatyam Grade 1 – Kids 5 years onwards
| Time |
Every Sunday from 11.30am to 12.30pm Current Term |
| Location | CVA, Centrale shoping center, Upper mall |
Bharatanatyam Grade 1 – Age 12 years onwards
| Time |
Every Sunday from 10.30 to 11.30am Current Term |
| Location | CVA, Centrale shoping center, Upper mall |
Bharatanatyam Grade 2 – Age 12 years onwards
| Time |
Every Wed from 5-6pm Current Term |
| Location | Coulsdon Mandir |
Bharatanatyam for Kids
| Time |
Every Sunday from 3.30-4.30pm Current Term |
| Location | JW3, Finchley |
Bollywood Classes
Bollywood Adults
| Time |
Every Sunday from 12.30 to 1.30pm Current Term |
| Location | CVA, Centrale shoping center, Upper mall |
Bollywood Younger Kids
| Time |
Every Sunday from 9.45am to 10.30am Current Term |
| Location | CVA, Centrale shoping center, Upper mall |
Bollywood Older Kids
| Time |
Every Sunday from 10.30am to 11.30am Current Term |
| Location | CVA, Centrale shoping center, Upper mall |
All Abilities
| Time |
Every Monday from 1.30 to 2.30pm Current Term
|
| Location | CVA, Centrale shoping center, Upper mall |
Folk and Semi Classical Classes
Folk and Semi Classical
| Time |
Every Sunday from 11.30am to 12.30pm Current Term |
| Location | CVA, Centrale shoping center, Upper mall |