Common Questions
Getting started
What age can my child start?
Our beginner classes start at age 4. Children aged 4–10 begin with Namaskaram, warm-up exercises, and their first adavus and mudras. Older beginners are placed by ability rather than age, so an 11-year-old starting fresh won't be put in a class of much younger children.
Does my child need any dance experience?
No. Most of our students start with none. If your child has trained elsewhere, bring that up at the trial class and Ketaki will place them at the right level.
Can adults learn Bharatanatyam?
Yes. We teach adults 18 and over, and instruction is shaped around your own goals — whether that's fitness and form, working toward performance, or reconnecting with training you did as a child. Adults can learn in a group or privately.
Can we try a class before committing?
Yes, and we'd encourage it. The trial class is free, with no obligation. Your child dances in a regular class with current students, and afterwards Ketaki will talk with you about placement and next steps.
Classes
How big are the classes?
Small. It's a deliberate choice. In a small group, every dancer gets corrected by name, every class.
How often are classes held?
Regular classes are generally held once a week. Each class is about 60 minutes. Additional practice or rehearsals may be scheduled when students are preparing for performances or special programs.
What should my child wear to the first class?
Students are to be in appropriate attire for the class. They should wear comfortable clothes they can move freely in — leggings or salwar and a fitted top, long T shirts or kurta, dupatta tied around the waist, plain red bindi and bare feet. Long hair should be worn in a neat braid.
When do we need to buy salangai (ankle bells)?
Ketaki will let you know when your child is ready, and can advise on where to buy them.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes. Some students do better one-to-one, and Ketaki may recommend it depending on level and goals. Private lessons can run alongside or instead of group classes.
Can parents watch their students during the class?
Classes are closed so dancers can concentrate fully. As Ketaki puts it: "When you are here, don't think about anything else. Just focus on yourself and concentrate on learning." You're welcome to watch at recitals and Arangetrams.
The path to Arangetram
What an Arangetram actually involves? An Arangetram is a graduation debut performance. A student ascends the stage for the first time after years of hard training accompanied by live musicians playing vocal, flute, violin and mridangam.
How long does it take to reach Arangetram?
Our curriculum runs to 10 levels before a student's Arangetram, their debut solo performance. It can take anywhere between 6-10 years but depends on the age a student starts, how consistently they attend, and how much they practice at home.
Is Arangetram required?
No. Many students train for years for the love of the form without ever performing an Arangetram. It's an option, not an expectation.
Attendance and payment
How do I pay, and when is tuition due?
Tuition is billed quarterly and due by the 5th of the first month of each quarter. We accept cash, check, or Zelle. We will soon be launching online payment portal for Parents. A $25 late fee applies after the 5th.
What happens if we miss a class?
We don't offer refunds or credits for missed classes — with groups this small, a place is held for your child whether they attend or not. If you know about an absence in advance, let us know and Ketaki can suggest what to practice so your child doesn't fall behind.
What if we need to stop classes?
We ask for 30 days' written notice before withdrawing.
How much is tuition?
We discuss tuition at your free trial class, once we've settled on the right level and class type. Fees are term-based and billed quarterly.
Still have a question?
Call 913-333-7570 or email nrityamschool@gmail.com — or just schedule a free trial class and ask in person.