Bharatanatyam
Journey Through Bharatanatyam: From Basics to Professional Mastery
Bharatanatyam lessons guide students through a progressive journey—from simple individual movements to the integration of the whole body, from structured form to fluid expression, and from stability to dynamic movement.
The curriculum encompasses rhythmic and melodic aspects of music, body knowledge, and philosophical background, aiming for a comprehensive understanding and mastery of this classical Indian dance form. The lessons cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced students and even those preparing for professional stage performances. The goal is not only to master Bharatanatyam but also to internalize and express its essence, making it relevant to one’s personal practice in today’s context. Each class is an exploration of movement and expression, encouraging students to deeply understand and embody the dance tradition.
In addition to adult courses, the academy offers specialized programs for children aged 4-6 and 7-11. Recognizing the importance of dance and movement in early education, these courses emphasize a playful and creative approach to the gestures, postures, and movements of Indian dance theatre. From the age of 7 (or 6 for those showing aptitude), children are systematically introduced to Bharatanatyam, fostering both creativity and discipline from a young age.
Teachers
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Eva Isolde Balzer
A Versatile Artist in Dance and Theater
Eva Isolde Balzer is a dedicated theater and Bharatanatyam artist with over 20 years of experience. She has co-created and performed more than 40 transcultural theater pieces, which blend cultural elements, as well as classical Bharatanatyam performances and contemporary dance-theater pieces that explore the language and expression of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form known for its intricate footwork and expressive gestures.
Focus on Healing and Decoloniality
Her artistic work centers on themes of healing, intimacy, and decoloniality — a concept that involves challenging and dismantling colonial influences in art and culture. She has trained in Bharatanatyam under the guidance of R. Ramesh for 17 years and has further honed her skills with Srilatha Vinodh, Sangeeta Ishvaran, and Venu G. of Navarasa Sadhana, an approach focusing on the nine emotional expressions of classical Indian dance. She has also trained with the Upadhye School of Dance in India, known for its innovative and traditional approaches to dance.
Teaching and Innovative Approaches
Since 2009, Eva has been teaching as an assistant to R. Ramesh at the GMA (Global Movement Arts) and independently in her studio. As a teacher, she utilizes a movement analytical approach known as FasciaNatya and CoreConcepts, which integrates the study of fascia (the connective tissue in the body) with dance. Her teaching approach is enriched by her studies in theater at ACTEA (France), cultural anthropology/Indology (BA), and dramatherapy (DGfT), making her an educator who combines deep cultural understanding with innovative dance techniques.
Courses
Languages
German, English, French
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Sri Lavanya
Sri Lavanya: A Journey in Indian Classical Arts
Sri Lavanya began her artistic journey in 1998 at the Temple of Fine Arts in Malaysia. Under the guidance of Vasuki Sivanesan in Bharatanatyam and Shri Usha Ramachandran in Carnatic vocal, she laid a solid foundation in the arts. She continues to refine her skills with advanced training from the internationally acclaimed Mavin Khoo.
Mastering Multiple Disciplines
Lavanya’s passion for dance led her to explore various Indian classical styles, including Bharatanatyam, Odissi, and Kathak. She trained in Odissi with Gowri Chandra and in Kathak with Dhanya Thurairajah, both esteemed disciples of renowned masters. Alongside dance, Lavanya has excelled in Carnatic music, especially on the flute, enriching her understanding of Indian Classical Art.
International Recognition and Contributions
Lavanya has performed both locally and internationally at prestigious events, including the Royal Palace of Malaysia and in front of former U.S. President Barack Obama. She has played a pivotal role in preserving Indian cultural heritage in Malaysia. Lavanya also shares her expertise through performances and lectures across Europe, collaborating with artists worldwide and contributing to global art festivals.
Courses
Languages
German, English, Tamil
Bharatanatyam Artist and Educator
Sritharan Niranjan-Schwaab completed his Bharatanatyam training under Guru Diana Rathish in 2013 and began teaching at her dance school the same year. Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form known for its intricate footwork and expressive gestures. He continued his studies in India and, in 2019, earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Bharatanatyam from the Oriental Fine Arts Academy of London (OFAAL). His diploma focused on “Hasta Prayogam,” the art of using hand gestures in Bharatanatyam, and he was honored with the title “Nattiya Kala Ratnam,” recognizing his expertise in the field.
Performances and Contributions
Sritharan has participated in various dance projects and performed on stages in Germany, England, and Switzerland alongside other artists. His extensive experience includes both performing and teaching Bharatanatyam. Notably, one of his long-time students made a successful Bharatanatyam debut in April 2024.
In addition to his dance career, Sritharan works as a special needs teacher and psychomotor therapist. He regularly offers exercise programs for individuals with physical and mental disabilities and integrates his dance expertise into these sessions, enriching the therapeutic experience.