Beeja’s workshops and residencies aim to share the enjoyment of dance, drama and music inspired by South Asian artistic practice. We also provide classes and workshops in ‘Bollywood dancing’ and other Indian folk styles. Beeja has extensive experience in working in a wide variety of educational and community setting – schools, museums, community centres, refugee centres, working with the elderly, special need groups, etc. It also provides workshops in corporate settings.

In bharatanatyam workshops the participants experience movements that capture the alignment and expressive beauty of the form. All sessions are accompanied by a percussionist on 'mridungam', a south Indian drum. The workshops can lead to a performance by the participants.

Activities include

• Experiencing the basic principles of rhythm and melody.
• Enhancing interpersonal skills by working on the emotive aspect of this dance theatre.
• Exploring the creative aspect of dance theatre in relation to a topic, or theme, that is relevant to the participants.

Example Workshop Types

• One day, or half a day
• After school clubs
• Theme-based residencies

The format for these workshops are devised in consultation with the organisers ensuring that the participants get opportunity to experience and explore the form in a creative and enjoyable manner. Ideally these are conducted by a dancer and a musician or two dancers.

Insets

The INSET training sessions are tailored to support the national curriculum and the needs of the teachers. The programme teaches elements of repertoire and technique. It provides teachers with skills and confidence to incorporate elements and appreciation of Indian classical or folk dance into their teaching.