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Taster dance workshops Kathak

Kathak workshop

Level: Beginners

Kathak is a form of Indian classical dance rooted in ancient tradition. Originating in the courts of India, its lyrical and poetic movement was often used for storytelling.

Our workshop leader Anuradha from Drishti Dance will give you a speedy introduction to some of the key techniques involved in kathak dance including the footwork, hand movements and spins, plus you can try out a short sequence of choreography. She is joined by Stephen, from our Company of Elders, to help demonstrate the moves.

Two dancers in a Kathak workshop
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Footwork

5 minutes

Here we focus on one of the most important elements of kathak – the footwork. Anuradha demonstrates the position of the feet and practices stamping different patterns to the count of 8 – known as tatkars.

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Two dancers in a Kathak workshop
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Hands

6 minutes

Hastaks are the hand movements used in kathak dance. We’ll practise extending the arms in the kathak style to the count of 8, using the wrists to guide your movement. You don’t need to do the other workshops in the series to practise this.

 

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Spins

7 minutes

Using ‘spotting’ to keep our focus, Anuradha guides us through a key aspect of kathak dance – spinning. Fancy stepping it up a level? Anuradha shows us how to add in hand movements and dance along to the music.

 

 

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Kathak Sequence

7 minutes

Try some simple choreography and experience moving in time to the music. The sequence will combine skills from the other workshops in the series, including hand movements, spins and footwork.

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