Sri Lavanya performing Bharatanatyam

Classical Dance as a Living, Evolving Dialogue

Bridging Cultures, Generations, and Communities Through Movement

Portrait Photo

Artistic Statement

Dance is my medium to explore the intricate intersections of identity, culture, and contemporary life.

Rooted in the rich traditions of Indian classical dance, my work aspires to push boundaries, blending heritage with innovation to address social issues and universal themes that resonate deeply with modern audiences. My artistic journey has been shaped by a diverse training background that includes Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathak, and Malaysian folk dance. This multiplicity reflects my own layered identity as an Indian Malaysian navigating cultural dualities and diasporic experiences. These influences converge in my practice, where I honor classical forms while reimagining them as tools to engage with present-day narratives and global concerns.

The body, in my work, is both a vessel of history and a canvas for contemporary expression. Through my choreography, I explore themes such as gender, heritage, and the resilience of marginalized voices, often weaving in elements like storytelling, poetry, and interdisciplinary collaborations. These approaches allow me to create work that is layered and accessible, bridging diverse cultures and audiences.

Recent Performances

A selection of recent solo and collaborative works

Performance Photo

Nari Shakti: The Divine Feminine

September 2024 | San Francisco, CA

A contemporary exploration of goddess worship through traditional Bharatanatyam, addressing themes of feminine power, resilience, and transformation in the modern world.

Performance Photo

Margam: A Traditional Journey

June 2024 | Chennai, India

A classical margam repertoire presented at the prestigious Natyanjali Festival, showcasing the depth and beauty of traditional Bharatanatyam compositions.

Performance Photo

Interconnected: A Collaborative Work

March 2024 | New York, NY

An interdisciplinary collaboration with contemporary musicians and visual artists, exploring themes of migration, identity, and cultural exchange.

Teaching & Workshops

Passing the torch to the next generation of dancers

I believe in making Bharatanatyam accessible to all who are drawn to its beauty and depth. My teaching approach combines rigorous traditional training with an emphasis on creative expression and cultural understanding.

Private Lessons

One-on-one instruction tailored to your level and goals, whether you're a beginner discovering dance or an advanced student preparing for arangetram.

Group Classes

Weekly classes for children and adults at various skill levels, fostering community and shared learning in a supportive environment.

Workshops

Intensive weekend workshops focusing on specific aspects like abhinaya, nritta technique, choreography, or thematic explorations.

Lecture Demonstrations

Educational presentations for schools, universities, and cultural organizations, introducing audiences to the rich heritage of Indian classical dance.

Teaching Photo

Get In Touch

Whether you're interested in attending a performance, booking me for an event, a workshop, or starting your dance journey

Location

Berlin, Germany

Follow