Kathak Technique for Beginners – Level 1

• Level 1 is designed as an ongoing foundation class. It is the perfect starting point for absolute beginners, while also providing existing students with the opportunity to continue strengthening their technique. Throughout each course, students will revisit core movements and foundational concepts while learning a new, simple dance item. This approach allows for repetition, reinforcement, and gradual progression without repeating the exact same course each term.
• Students will begin to develop an understanding of Kathak repertoire, rhythm and movement, while learning how to apply these concepts through choreography. The focus is on building strong foundations, confidence and an understanding of the language of Kathak.
• Training will be in both the Jaipur and Lucknow gharana of kathak.
• Regular attendance and self-practice are key processes to maximise your learning from the class. If a class is missed, it is an expectation for student’s to watch videos from the missed class and self-revise any missed content prior to the next class.
• Ghungroos are not required in level 1 (level 2 onwards).
• Learn in a supportive and encouraging environment, geared towards adult learning.
• Learn from one of Australia’s top Kathak choreographer, dancer and teacher, with over 20 years Kathak training.
• Have access to a private group chat (via WhatsApp), to encourage communication with other students and your teacher.

**Important note regarding progression to Level 2:**

Progression to Level 2 is based on individual readiness rather than the number of courses completed. Level 1 is designed to establish the foundations of Kathak, including basic posture, coordination, tatkar (footwork), rhythm, hand movements and simple movement sequences.

Students are encouraged to repeat Level 1 courses as they build confidence and consistency in these fundamentals. Your teacher will advise you when you are ready to progress to Level 2, based on your technique, understanding of rhythm and ability to perform the foundational movements with greater control and confidence.

There is no set timeframe for progression — every student develops at their own pace.

While the courses themselves are not certified, there may be opportunities to sit exams after progressing through higher levels of training for those students interested in pursuing them.

Teacher – Ida Ghatge

Ida is a Kathak dancer, choreographer, and psychologist with over 20 years of experience. Trained under Guru Shri Harish Gangani and Radhika Karandikar, she specialises in the Jaipur gharana of Kathak- and holds a bachelor’s degree in Indian Classical Dance. Ida is also Creative Director of Sapphire Dance, Australia’s leading Bollywood company, and teaches Kathak at Studio J. She has training across various Indian and western commercial dance forms and additionally offers private lessons, master classes and group workshops. She has performed across Australia, Europe, India, and the US, including collaborations with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and the award-winning short film Twin Flame. A registered psychologist with a master’s in clinical psychology, Ida uses her platform to champion mental health, challenge stereotypes, and empower communities of colour through art and movement.

Assistant Teacher – Sucheta Pereira

Sucheta is a Kathak dancer who has trained under Guru Sanchita Abrol for five years, and continues to learn under her tutelage to enrich her technical repertoire. Her foundational Kathak training was under Parvyn Kaur Singh, and this year she has sought to diversify her dance repertoire, training under Ida Ghatge at Studio J. As part of Guru Sanchita Abrol’s repertoire group, Sucheta has performed at Parliament House Canberra, MCG, Marvel Stadium, NGV and Arts Centre Melbourne. Beyond Kathak, she has trained in ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, and competitive Calisthenics. She holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Business.