Photo: Paul Dennehy

Lecture/Demonstration -
Taal Tales* - This 45-minute lecture/demonstration presents a history of classical South Indian dance and performances of dance pieces celebrating various deities. Students see analogies between art from India and America, understanding parallels between art forms and cultures. They view posters of dance-related art, hear about the history and cultural context of dance, learn basic rhythms and hand gestures, and are asked to identify percussive patterns and stories in the dance pieces. In this highly interactive program, the participants are engaged by asking and answering questions throughout the entire program. A small group is invited to get up to learn some movement, and there is a Question & Answer period at the end of the program.

Taal Tales is recommended for school or library groups of 75 or fewer children (or up to 200 maximum).  The program material is modified depending on the age group.  Tara has given lecture/demonstrations throughout New England in public and private schools, religious schools and schools for students with special needs.
*Block booking at discounted rates now available .

Rhythm & Ritual is recommended for university students, cultural organizations or women's groups of 150 or fewer adults.

Tara (top right) with her workshop students  and  Director Patricia Romano (center) at the Natyalaya Escola da Danca, Sao Paolo, Brazil

Workshop -
Classical Indian Dance Workshop:  60-90 minute session (in a school, cultural organization or studio) in which a group of students receives an introduction to practicing the dance form. After doing some warm-up exercises and stretches, they learn some of the basic movements (rhythmic stamping and footwork, hand gestures, eye and neck movement, and a taste of choreography). The workshop ends with a warm-down. Recommended for groups of 30 or less.

Workshop for Middle Eastern/Belly Dancers:  

90-120 minute session in which students learn specific elements of classical Indian dance which can serve as training or inspiration for Middle Eastern dance choreography: Rhythmic improvisation, body postures, walks, arm movements and hand gestures.