Akshata Rao - Meraki Performing Arts Ottawa

3 DAYS TO GO!! 💥
We are presenting a repertoire of marathi folk dances - 'Maharashtra Lokdhaara' at the Maha Bharatotsav this Saturday, 13 August at approx. 5pm. ⏰️

Come experience the cultural diversity from the western state of Maharashtra - Dindi, Gondhal, Koli dance, Shetkari nrutya and of course Lavani! 🥁

For tickets visit: The Great India Festival

Come dance for a cause! 💃

I am conducting a virtual Indian folk dance workshop 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝗹𝗹𝘆𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗱 in collaboration with Toasty Toes Ottawa.

The campaign raises funds for agencies to buy new socks for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in our region.

"Socks is the most requested and the least donated item at shelters".

When: Sat, 20 Nov from 10 to 11am EST
Where: Zoom
Kids and adults of all ages welcome!

Registration:
- Donate $10 or more at https://bit.ly/3BnbdjG. All proceeds will go towards campaign
- Enter 𝗕𝗼𝗹𝗹𝘆𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 in the comments section
- Zoom link will be emailed to you closer to the event date.

Never underestimate the difference you can make with a pair of warm, dry socks. Let's ensure everyone has ToastyToes this winter!

O Rangrez..

The sthayi bhaav of Rati gives rise to Shringara rasa and this mesmerizing composition perfectly emulates the feelings of a Vasaksajja nayika with it's heart and soul.

Bringing to you my attempt at this masterpiece from the movie Bhaag Milkha Bhaag.

A huge shout out to my constant supporter, dance partner and now talented videographer Farhan Khan for making this happen.

O Rangrez - semi classical - dance cover

Here's introducing Indian semi-classical dance classes with Akshata Rao.

Do you love dancing? 🎵
Looking for a fun activity this fall? 🍂
Has the अदा and नज़ाकत of Indian classical dance forms always allured you?

Come learn the basics of Bharatnatyam and Kathak and build your confidence when performing a semi-classical piece.

Virtual/in-person classes starting mid-October. For more information and to register, contact me at [email protected]

What is Indian semi-classical dance?

Semi-classical dance has its origins in Indian classical and folk dance styles. While not as complex or intricate as pure classical forms, semi-classical style continues to preserve the authenticity of the Indian dance tradition through it's movements, expressions and hand-gestures.

Would you like to step into this world of grace and charm, and dance to a different rhythm?

Stay tuned as we look forward to an exciting new series of dance classes conducted by Akshata Rao this fall.

Picture credit: Sharad Gupta

Welcome to Meraki Performing Arts!

We are thrilled to launch dance lessons specializing in Indian semi-classical and folk styles in our very own Ottawa city.

Stay tuned for more details..