Shantala Shivalingappa will teach a master class introducing Kuchipudi, a classicaldance form of South India that combines abstract and narrative movements based on Hindu mythology. Kuchipudi is characterized by its rhythmic and vibrant style full of quick, intricate footwork and jumps. The class will have live musical accompaniment by percussionist Haribabu Balan Puttamamma and vocalist Ramesh Jetty.

A self described “child of east and west,” Shantala Shivalingappa is a dancer and choreographer born in Madras, India, and brought up in Paris. She trained in Kuchipudi from Master Vempati Chinna Satyam Shivalingappa and has worked with some of the greatest artists of our times including Maurice Béjart, Peter Brook, Pina Bausch, and Amagatsu (“Ibuki”). Read more.

Participants must be 18 years or over with intermediate to advanced level danceexperience in any form. Observers welcome!

Participation is free but online registration is REQUIRED for both participants and observers. First-come, first-served, with priority given to Harvard University Undergraduate Students.