Indian Dance Academy : Kathak

Step into the world of Kathak, the classical dance form of Northern India, where intricate footwork, graceful movement, rhythm and expressive storytelling come together. Whether you're completely new to Kathak or looking to develop your skills, SAA-uk's classes offer a welcoming space to learn, create, connect and grow.

Led by Jyoti Manral, Kathak Dance Tutor and Dance Development Officer at SAA-uk, students develop authentic technique alongside confidence, creativity and a deeper connection to South Asian culture.

Why Learn Kathak with SAA-uk?
Our classes go beyond learning steps. You'll explore the rich language of Kathak — from tatkaar and chakkars to mudras, taal, laya, bhava and abhinaya — while developing musicality, performance skills and your own artistic expression.

You Will Learn :
* ​​​​Graceful posture, alignment and movement
* Intricate footwork and rhythmic patterns
* Chakkars (spins), mudras and expressive storytelling
* Taal, laya and padhant
* Bhava and abhinaya
* Kathak's history, traditions and gharanas
* Performance, confidence and stage presence
* How movement connects with Indian classical music

Dance with Live Musicians :
One of the unique features of SAA-uk's Kathak programme is the opportunity to dance alongside live classical musicians. Throughout the year, students experience accompaniment from musicians playing tabla, sarangi, santoor and vocals, helping them develop a deeper understanding of rhythm, musicality and the relationship between dance and music. It's an immersive way to experience Kathak — not just as a dance, but as a living musical tradition.

Benefits Beyond Dance :
•    Boost your mental and physical well-being 
•    Cultivate creativity and emotional expression 
•    Gain deep insight into Indian classical arts 
•    Begin as a hobbyist, grow into a knowledgeable artist 
•    Cultural understanding through the roots of Kathak dance 
•    Self-discovery to express yourself confidently   
•    Sense of Community building  
--- Whether you begin as a hobby or aspire to develop as an artist, you'll be encouraged to learn at your own pace and discover your own connection to the art form.

Learn, Practice and Progress :
Your learning continues beyond the studio. Students receive practice videos, study materials, individual feedback and regular assessments, supported through the Kathak WhatsApp Group and Google Classroom.

Opportunities to Perform :
Students have opportunities to share their learning at SAA-uk performances and community events, including Diwali, Holi, Navratri and Parampara, our bi-annual student showcase. You can also take part in specialist workshops and intensive bootcamps led by internationally celebrated artists.

Grow through our Dance Buddy Scheme :
Senior students can develop their teaching and leadership skills by shadowing tutors and supporting beginner classes — gaining valuable practical experience as they progress in their artistic journey.

Experience World-Class Performances :
Through SAA-uk's Enrichment Programme, students receive free tickets to selected performances by renowned artists, giving them the opportunity to experience professional South Asian music and dance live. 

Free Tickets for Students :
With the support of SAA-uk, students can experience world-class dance and music performances without financial constraints. 

50% Discount for Parents :
Parents receive half-price tickets, allowing them to accompany and support their child's artistic journey. 
This initiative is designed to: 
•    Inspire students through live professional performances 
•    Encourage family involvement in the learning process 
•    Remove financial barriers to cultural enrichment 

NSCD Dance Studio facilities : 
•     A fully sprung dance sub-floor
•    Mirrors and ballet barres
•    A comprehensive audio system and video projection or monitor playback facilities
•    Café bar and foyer: A comfortable social and relaxation area
•    Toilets and changing rooms 
•    Free parking onsite 
•    Free Wi-Fi facility 

📍CLASSES, VENUES & TIMINGS : 

WEDNESDAYS — MORLEY  Crank Studio, Morley Live CIC, 1 Beryl Burton Gardens, Morley, Leeds, LS27 9FN
5:30pm–6:30pm | Ages 5+

Term : 16 September 2026 – 7 July 2027

Term 1 Dates (10 Weeks) :
16 Sep 2026
23 Sep 2026
30 Sep 2026
07 Oct 2026
14 Oct 2026
04 Nov 2026
11 Nov 2026
18 Nov 2026
25 Nov 2026
02 Dec 2026

Please note: There will be a two-week half-term break on 21 October and 28 October 2026.

THURSDAYS — LEEDS  Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD), 98 Chapeltown Road, Leeds, LS7 4BH

Beginners: 5:30pm–6:30pm
Intermediate: 6:30pm–7:30pm
Advanced: 7:30pm–8:30pm

Term: 17 September 2026 – 8 July 2027
Duration: 1 hour for each class
Ages: 5+

FEES :
£120 per 10-week term
£324 for the full 30-week year — including a 10% discount

Sibling discount: 10% off the total fee when siblings join together
Student rate: £60 per term for university/college students
Parent discount: 50% off when learning the same discipline as your child

Bursaries are available for those experiencing financial hardship. Applications are means-tested and available on request.

Annual Term Dates: Sep 2025 to July 2026 (Thursdays)