Mission and core values
Shri Gurubhyo Namah
Shreebala Nrithyalaya provides rigorous training in the practical and theoretical components essential for an authentic presentation of traditional Bharatanatyam Margam. Classes prioritize quality instruction, maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio. Students will engage in exercises designed to develop flexibility and physical receptivity to the art form. Beyond solely performance aspects, the curriculum fosters a holistic understanding of the dance. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to showcase their skills in an annual concert.
Training model & Student progress
This course requires students to attend a one-hour weekly class with dedicated additional practice. In some cases, the school may offer extra support sessions for students requiring further instruction. Success demands self-motivation, commitment, and substantial independent practice for the attainment of high proficiency. 'Arangetram' level achievement is contingent upon such rigor. Our teaching is rooted in the ‘Guru-Sishya’ tradition of Bharatanatyam. The Guru guides the student, offering suitable courses only when the student demonstrates readiness. Every instruction is crucial for developing mastery and performance confidence. It is vital for students and parents to positively embrace both praise and constructive criticism from the Guru, ensuring progress. This approach may differ from common practices in the United States. Students transferring from other schools will be assessed and placed at the appropriate level based on demonstrated skills. Children under six may attend trial classes, with formal enrollment contingent upon observed interest, focus, and stamina.
Code of conduct & dress code
Shreebala Nrithyalaya upholds an equal opportunity admissions policy, welcoming all students who
fulfill the established Bharatanatyam eligibility criteria. Punctuality is expected, with
students arriving five minutes before the scheduled class time. Unless previously arranged due
to extenuating circumstances, parents may not remain in the classroom during lessons. Video and
photography of students are permitted during the final 15 minutes of the last class each month.
Students' progress is formally assessed on a quarterly basis.
Dress Code: Students must wear comfortable red Indian salwar tops and pants with a shawl tied
around the waist. Boys should wear Indian Kurtis and comfortable pants. All students must apply
a bindi (pottu) to their foreheads, and hair should be neatly tied.
Course levels
The curriculum introduces students to warm-up exercises, adavus (fundamental dance steps), shlokas (devotional verses), hasta mudras (symbolic hand gestures), and narratives drawn from Hindu mythology
Technical Dance Elements: Alaripu, Kauthuvam, Jathiswaram, Sabdham,
and Padam.
Theoretical Foundations: This level incorporates instruction on:
- Eye Movements (Drishti Bhedas)
- Neck Movements (Greeva Bhedas)
- Head Movements (Shiro Bhedas)
- Foot Positions (Padha Bheda)
- Hand Gestures with Verses (Hastha Vinyogas-slokas)
- Expressive Acting (Abinaya), including role play
Students at this level master the remaining compositions essential for a comprehensive Bharatanatyam recital. These intricate pieces include the Varnam, Padams, Ashtapadi, Javali, and Thillana. While 'Arangetram' (the debut stage performance) signifies a milestone, it is merely the commencement of a dancer's lifelong journey. This graduation performance, adhering to the traditional 'Margam' format, demonstrates the formal transmission of knowledge within this art form. Comprising the Kauthuam, Alarippu, Jathiswaram, Shabdam, Varnam, Padams, Ashtapadi, Javali, and Thillana, the 'Margam' testifies to the student's artistic growth.
Successful execution of the approximately two-hour 'Arangetram' performance demands exceptional stamina, unwavering dedication, and profound concentration.
Raji Krishna
Founder and Artistic director
Since 1986, Mrs. Rajalakshmi Krishna, widely known as Ms. Raji, has excelled as a Bharatanatyam performer, instructor, and choreographer. Over the last 35 years, she has significantly contributed to the Bharatanatyam discipline through her performances, teaching, and choreography at her school and various institutions in India and the USA.
More DetailsPerformances gallery
Recent performances
Arangetram performance of Chandni
Beautiful Hari Narayana kautuam presented in Chennai RR sabha Arengetram, by my student Chandini Elango
Arangetram of Anika Chebrolu
Raja Rajeswari Ashtakam in Ragamaligai / Adi
Students' performance in chennai temples
Glipmse of students' performance in Chennai Temples.
Enna thavam seithanai in kapi ragam / Adi
Sri Vedakrishnaram on Mirudangam
Shree Saravanan on Flute
Shree sikamani on violin
Smt Raji Krishna on Nattuvangam & choreography
In the news
The recent performance in RR Sabha, Chennai, by Chandni Elango, as seen in the news coverage.
Thillana in Ragam : Paras (adi thallam).
Orchestra support :
Shree kovai praveen - vocal
Shree Nagai sriram - Mirudangam
Shree sikkil Bala - Violin
Shree Krishna - Rhythm pad
Nattuvangam & Choreography - Guru Smt Raji Krishna
Testimonials
Jayalakshmi Anand
Mother and an Independent Reviewer
Excellent dance school.The teacher is well educated in the art of dance and very knowledgeable. She is very dedicated and patient with the kids. I really recommend this dance school for people around Frisco/Plano/Dfw area.
Sasi Kumar
Father and an Entrepreneur
Refreshing videos... Students must see these and get inspired. A school of bharatanatyam with a guru that is truly dedicated to this art form and teaches with genuinity.
Hema Patil
Mother and an Independent Reviewer
One of the most recommended dance schools around the area.
Kuldeep Karthik
Businessman in Texas area
I wish even I could join the courses looking at the level of dedication.
Manj Raj
Father and a successful professional.
The knowledge and intricate skills of the instructor is outstanding.
Suraj Kumar
Defence candidate
Excellent dance school and highly recommended
Vidhya S Sriram
Mother and a software professional.
Not only the curriculum is well structured and comprehensive, what impresses me most is how the instructor motivate and drive the students towards success.