Founded by Guru Kantham Chatlapalli, Natyanikethan is dedicated to cultivating interest and passion for Indian dance. For over three decades, Kantham Chatlapalli has used the ancient classical art form of Kuchipudi to instill patience, discipline, and commitment in her students.
The school's unique approach emphasizes personalized instruction, with small groups of 3-4 students receiving individual attention. Lessons delve beyond dance technique, exploring the rich traditions and culture of India. This specialized methodology has enabled Natyanikethan to produce exceptional dancers who have significantly contributed to the prominence of Kuchipudi in the United States.
Natyanikethan students have graced numerous stages, promoting cultural diversity through their performances. They have participated in prestigious events such as the "One River, Many Streams Festival" organized by the Dutchess County Arts Council, "Diversity through Dance" presented by the New York State Arts Council, and "World on Stage" by the Namaskaar Foundation. In 2001, they opened for Anoushka Shankar at the Bardavon Opera House and, in 2006, performed at a reception for "Pearls of the Parrot of India" hosted by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The school has also been honored to perform at the United Nations Global Beauty and Culture celebrations and for former Indian President Dr. Abdul Kalam.
Additionally, Natyanikethan students have conducted dance workshops for children and adults at renowned institutions like the Caramoor Center of Music and Arts, Vanaver and Caravan Dance Company, and the International School in Riverside, CT.
The school's unique approach emphasizes personalized instruction, with small groups of 3-4 students receiving individual attention. Lessons delve beyond dance technique, exploring the rich traditions and culture of India. This specialized methodology has enabled Natyanikethan to produce exceptional dancers who have significantly contributed to the prominence of Kuchipudi in the United States.
Natyanikethan students have graced numerous stages, promoting cultural diversity through their performances. They have participated in prestigious events such as the "One River, Many Streams Festival" organized by the Dutchess County Arts Council, "Diversity through Dance" presented by the New York State Arts Council, and "World on Stage" by the Namaskaar Foundation. In 2001, they opened for Anoushka Shankar at the Bardavon Opera House and, in 2006, performed at a reception for "Pearls of the Parrot of India" hosted by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The school has also been honored to perform at the United Nations Global Beauty and Culture celebrations and for former Indian President Dr. Abdul Kalam.
Additionally, Natyanikethan students have conducted dance workshops for children and adults at renowned institutions like the Caramoor Center of Music and Arts, Vanaver and Caravan Dance Company, and the International School in Riverside, CT.
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Collaboration
Natyanikethan has collaborated with over 25 organizations to encourage rich cultural ancestry and support local community activities. The Telugu Association of North America (TANA), American Telugu Association (ATA), Federation of Indian Association (FIA), Indian American Cultural Association of Westchester (IACAW), Namaskaar Foundation, Vanaver Caravan Dance Company, and the Dutchess County Arts Council are just a few of the established organizations that have supported and promoted this dance company.
Recognition
Individual students of Natyanikethan have received countless accolades across the country. These honors include Gold Champion award for Kuchipudi dance and Best Costume from the International Dance Challenge (2003), first prize in folk dance competitions in Telugu Association of Greater Delaware Valley, PA (1993-2009), first place from the Telugu Fine Arts Society, NJ and 2010 National Finalists in JOSH NRI Dance Talent Hunt, NJ. In addition to competitions, Natyanikethan students have received great honors for their efforts in promoting Indian Dance. These include Dutchess County Executive Award for Youth with Exceptional Promise in Arts (2007), Harvard University dance scholarship, apprenticeship in Kuchipudi dance from New York State Council on The Arts, and Honorable Mention from the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (NFAA). In June 2008, Natyanikethan students performed in the first International Kuchipudi Dance Festival in Cupertini, CA along with 332 artists from all over the world and established a Guinness World Record. A popular national television show, Fox Network’s, “So You Think You Can Dance,” featured one of Natyanikethan’s students. In December 2010 and 2012, students of Natyanikethan traveled to India and participated in the 2nd and 3rd International Kuchipudi Dance Convention in Hyderabad along with their Director/Guru Kantham Chatlapalli.