Classes & Workshops

Classes & Courses

All Kathak classes are taught in accordance with the syllabus put down by Imperial Society for Teachers of Dance (ISTD), UK.

Shivani also refers to the syllabi from Bharatiya Vidyapeeth (Pune, India) and Gandharva Mahavidyalaya (Mumbai, India) to develop globally informed Kathak practitioners.

Long-term learning

I have designed a Kathak curriculum rooted in classical practice, informed by my training in Benarasi and Lucknowi angas (sub-styles of Kathak). I integrate my training in contemporary dance and ballet for body awareness, body conditioning, accessibility, and injury prevention. The curriculum is taught over seven levels. Each level has modules on Theory & Terminology, Technique, Repertoire (Abstract), Repertoire (Stroytelling), Dance History and Navigating Space. The students are assessed on Anga Shuddhi (clarity of movement), Taal Shuddhi (rhythmic accuracy), and Laya Shuddhi (tempo control).

Beginners' Course

This is an introductory 6-week course that teaches basic hand movements, footwork and chakkars (pirouettes). At the end of the 6 weeks, the learner learns to weave all three techniques into short rhythmic compositions.

Zero Period

An 8-week course that uses techniques from Indian dance theory to refine one’s practice. It is open to advanced-level dancer of any style. It includes modules on building spatial awareness, physical strength, writing about dance, body mapping and rhythm exercises.

Online Classes

Online classes are taught live via Google Meet. They are suitable for dancers based anywhere.

Day: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays
Time: Different time slots available - please refer to my Calendly for more information.
Duration: 60 minutes
Fees: £15 per session

For progressive learning, we recommend booking a slot every week or every 10 days. You have the option of paying per session or for a few sessions at a time for convenience.

A Meet link is shared after booking. Recordings are not provided unless stated.

Workshops

Dance Workshops (Intermediate level)

Workshops for intermediate learners require some prior experience with Indian dance. These workshops teach techniques relevant to the music routine being taught. Some routines are not Kathak, but utilise movements appropriate for the music. Lasting 90 minutes, these sessions are engaging, informative, and fun.

Kathak Workshops (Advanced level)

Workshops that introduces the basic techniques like hand movements, footwork, chakkars (pirouettes), and techniques for storytelling. Typically, these are 90-minute-long sessions. Previously delivered for CAT students at Northern School of Contemporary Dance.

More information

What will you be learning?

Kathak is a North Indian classical dance form. It is known for rhythmic footwork, graceful spins, and expressive storytelling. We follow the syllabus set by the Imperial Society for Teachers of Dance (ISTD), UK as well as Bharatiya Vidyapeeth (Pune, India) and Gandharva Mahavidyalaya (Mumbai, India).

Who can join these classes?

Our classes are open to children above 5 years of age, young people and adults. Those who have never danced Kathak or another Indian dance style are also welcome. We start from the basics and focus on building a solid foundation.

Who teaches the classes?

Shivani is a professional dancer and teacher with over 8 years of experience in India and the UK. She holds a Vishaarad in Kathak from Gandharva Mahavidyalaya (Mumbai, India) and an MA in Dance & Creative Enterprise from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance (Leeds, UK). She teaches with care, clarity, and respect for the form. Her classes focus on technique, rhythm, musicality, and expression.
She also shares cultural and historical context. Students are encouraged to learn at their own pace.

Where are the classes held?

In-person classes are held in Dance Studio Leeds. We also offer online classes via Google Meet.

How many people can sign up to the class?

The in-person classes can fit up to 8 people in each cohort. The online classes are held 1:1 or in small groups.