Bharata Natyam Workshops with Leela Samson

Presented by Leela Foundation

September 10,11, 12, & 14, 2025

Leela School of Dance Studio

Leela Foundation is honored to present a special series of Bharata Natyam workshops led by the acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and teacher Leela Samson. Held this September, these immersive sessions offer dancers of all levels a unique opportunity to train with one of the most revered exponents of Indian classical dance.

About the Artist

Leela Samson is an iconic figure in the world of Bharata Natyam, celebrated for her deep artistry, impeccable technique, and lifelong commitment to both the preservation and evolution of the form.

A recipient of prestigious honors including the Padma Shri, Kalaimamani, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, she has also served as Director of Kalakshetra and Chairperson of the Sangeet Natak Akademi. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in discipline, clarity, and a profound respect for tradition, while encouraging personal reflection and expressive freedom.

Workshop Overview

Workshops will be offered at three levels:

• Junior (Bāla) - Foundations in Bharatanatyam

  Taught by: Spanda Team under the guidance of Leela Samson

  4:30 PM - 6:30 PM on 9/12, 9/14, 9/15

  Level: Beginner (3-5 years of Bharatanatyam instruction)

  Meaning: Bāla means "young" or "child" in Sanskrit, symbolizing the early stages of learning.

  Focus:

  • Posture and alignment

  • Expressive exercises and simple storytelling

  • Piece taught- Nottuswaram

Ragam: Shankarabharanam

Talam: Adi

Nottuswarams are compositions in Carnatic music primarily by Muthuswami Dikshitar, who is celebrated as one among the Trinity of Carnatic music.

Consisting of Sanskrit lyrics composed in Shankarabharanam raga that corresponds to the western C major scale, Nottuswarams are a confluence of western and eastern expressions. 

The Nottuswaram, that will be taught is Rama Janardhan, addressed to Sri Rama.

• Intermediate (Madhya) – Expanding Grace and Expression

  Taught by: Spanda Team under the guidance of Leela Samson

  4:30 PM - 6:30 PM on 9/10, 9/11 & 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM on 9/14

  Level: Intermediate (6-8 years of Bharatanatyam instruction)

  Meaning: Madhya means "middle," referring to a learner in transition.

  Focus:

  • Precision

  • Deeper exploration of nritya (expression)

  Kriti- Kaa Vaa Vaa

  Ragam: Varali

  Talam: adi

  It is a well known krithi in Tamil, by renowned music composer and vocalist, Paapanaasam Sivan from the 20th century. Addressed to Lord Muruga, the son of Shiva, the kriti is an invocation to Lord Muruga to come and protect his devotees.

  
  

• Advanced (Praveena) – Mastery and Nuance

  Taught by Leela Samson at Leela School of Dance

   6:30 PM - 8:30 PM on 9/10, 9/11 & 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM on 9/14

  Level: Advanced (8+ years of Bharatanatyam instruction)

  Meaning: Praveena (or Pravīṇa) translates to "proficient".

  Focus:

  • Complex choreography and rhythmic variations

  • Mastery of full-length margam items (like varnam, padam)

  • Subtle abhinaya techniques

  • Performance readiness and stage presence

  • Piece taught:Thillana

  Ragam: Mandari

  Talam: Adi

  Rhythmic, vibrant and energetic, the Mandari Thillana which is a composition of the Tanjore Quartet for the advanced level will be characterized by intricate rhythmic patterns and challenging combinations. 

  
  

• Teachers (Acharya) – Pedagogical Approaches in Bharatanatyam

  Taught by Leela Samson at Leela School of Dance

  11:00 AM - 1:00 PM on 9/10, 9/11, 9/12

  • Level: Teachers & Senior Practitioners

  • Meaning: Acharya means "teacher" or "one who leads by example."

  • Focus:

    • Techniques for teaching rhythm, theory, and expression

    • Addressing student needs: creativity vs discipline

    • Discussion of lineage, pedagogy, and evolving trends

    • Open Q&A and peer exchange session

• "Netru Varen Endru", a Tamil padam, composed by the late 19th century poet Subbarama Iyer.

• Ragam: Pantuvarali

• Talam: mishra chappu

  The piece explores the longing and unfulfilled promises of the Nayika.

Each session will focus on both nritta (pure dance) and nritya (expressive dance), with an emphasis on clarity of form and depth of expression.

Registration

Times and venues may change based on studio availability.

PURCHASE WORKSHOPS HERE

We invite dancers, students, educators, and professionals to take advantage of this rare and enriching opportunity to learn from one of the finest voices in Bharata Natyam today.