Odissi - Introduction to Classical Indian Dance

In this class, students will be introduced to Odissi, one of the eight Classical Dances of India.  I will teach the origins and history of Odissi, how to distinguish Odissi from the other types of dance in India, the meaning and culture of Odissi, the costumes of Odissi, and the process of becoming an Odissi Dancer.  This dance comes from Hindu and Yogic traditions, and therefore a very brief introduction on how those traditions relate to the Dance will also be taught.

Topics that will be taught include origins and history, meaning and culture, and what is involved in learning this style of dance.  My class is instructed with a combination of lecture, discussion, slides, and live demonstrations.  My teaching style is discussion based, allowing for the free flow of relevant questions and ideas back and forth between myself and the students.  I want my students to be engaged and involved in the class.

I encourage class participation and interaction for students who want to be part of the discussion.  While I will be lecturing, I also open up the platform for questions, clarifications, and discussions on topics that are of particular interest to students.  We will also be using slides and I will provide live demonstrations of the dance.

No experience is necessary, and no previous knowledge is required.