Dr. Tejaswini Rao is a renowned performer of two Indian classical dance styles, Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. She has performed extensively and her performances have received international acclaim. She conducts a dance school “Natya” at Buffalo, NY and has trained over 300 students over the past 30 years. Many of her students have continued to perform and teach. Tejaswini has presented many workshops and lecture-demonstrations at dance schools and conferences. An alumnus of Pennsylvania State University, she is also an associate professor in the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition at the SUNY College, Buffalo, NY.

• Workshop is free of cost, but please register by sending an email to amitarora@psu.edu.
• Open to people from all age groups.
• No prior exposure to any dance form is expected.
• Includes resource materials and presentations.
  

Introduction to the dance form:

Bharatanatyam is the subtle, sophisticated, and stylized dance style of South India. It is one of the most highly refined and developed systems of dance. It used to be performed in the temples as an integral part of the ritual and ceremonial observances. Repertoires and modes of presentation have changed over its long history, but its intimate association with Hindu religion and mythology has been preserved. It is traditionally performed solo but lends itself to group choreography, also. It is a strongly dynamic and precise style of dance. The hallmarks of the style are crisp geometric movements, linear lines, unique stretches, sclupteresque poses, demi-plie-like stance, complex rhythmic footwork, and stylized and delicate facial expressions.