DanceKarishma

Welcome to DanceKarishma, a vibrant and culturally rich dance academy located in the heart of Cupertino, California. For residents across the Silicon Valley, DanceKarishma offers an exceptional opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and discipline of Indian classical and folk dance forms. We understand that for many in the California community, connecting with their cultural heritage through dance is a deeply cherished pursuit, and DanceKarishma is dedicated to providing an authentic, fun, and engaging environment for this journey.

Founded by Jaya Sharma (Dance Director) and Nikhil Sharma (Managing Director), DanceKarishma is a labor of love, born from their shared passion for dance. While both hold full-time careers as software engineer and architect, their dedication to bringing the classical touch of Indian dance to life for others is evident in every aspect of the school. DanceKarishma has two sub-divisions: KathakAanjali, focusing on classical Kathak, and FolkRas, dedicated to various Indian folk dance styles. This dual focus ensures a comprehensive offering that caters to diverse interests within the Indian dance spectrum.

At DanceKarishma, we believe that dance is a divine art form that not only enhances physical and mental well-being but also provides a platform for self-expression and cultural exchange. Our mission is to provide a fun-filled environment where students of all ages can learn, perform, and appreciate the rich traditions of Indian dance. From rigorous classical training in Kathak (Lucknow Gharana) to the lively rhythms of Garba and Dandiya, DanceKarishma is a place where you can explore, learn, and truly connect with the rhythm of the universe. This introduction aims to provide a glimpse into the heart of DanceKarishma, inviting you to discover the joy and benefits of Indian dance right here in Cupertino.

DanceKarishma is conveniently situated at 1039 Pennington Ln, Cupertino, CA 95014, USA. This prime location places our dance academy in an accessible and family-friendly part of Cupertino, making it an ideal choice for residents across the Silicon Valley. Our studio is located near Kennedy Middle School, in the Monta Vista area, which is a well-known and easily navigable neighborhood. This ensures that reaching our location is straightforward for families and individuals from Cupertino itself, as well as from nearby cities such as San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, and Saratoga.

For those traveling by car, Pennington Lane offers convenient access, and the surrounding residential area typically provides ample street parking. While parking on Pennington Lane itself should be avoided to ensure smooth traffic flow, and blocking house driveways is strictly prohibited, parallel parking on adjacent streets like Pumpkin Dr or Woodlark St is encouraged. Students and parents are advised to plan to arrive early to secure parking and to always park all the way forward to maximize space for others. This attention to parking details aims to ensure a smooth and respectful experience for everyone in the neighborhood.

While driving is a popular mode of transportation for many of our students, Cupertino also offers public transportation options. Local bus routes may provide connections within walking distance to our studio. We recommend checking current local transit schedules for the most up-to-date public transport information. Additionally, ride-sharing services are readily available throughout this well-connected part of California, offering flexible transportation solutions. Our commitment to providing a welcoming and accessible learning environment extends to ensuring that our physical location is a convenient hub for the local Indian dance community.

At DanceKarishma, we offer a rich and diverse range of Indian dance services, meticulously designed to cater to various ages, skill levels, and interests. Our curriculum is built upon authentic traditions while ensuring a fun and engaging learning experience.

• Kathak Classes (Classical Indian Dance): As a cornerstone of our offerings, we provide comprehensive Kathak instruction. Our Kathak program is affiliated with "Akhil Bharteeya Gandharv Mahavidyalaya," following their syllabus from Prarambhik to Visharad levels. We teach the Lucknow Gharana style, while also discussing other gharanas for broader knowledge. Classes are available for both adults and kids aged 6 and above. Students have the option to appear for formal examinations through the Mandal, or simply learn for the joy of the art without exams.

• Indian Folk Dance Styles: Under our "FolkRas of Dance Karishma" sub-division, we offer lively and energetic classes in various popular Indian folk dances, including:

  • Garba: The vibrant dance from Gujarat.
  • Dandiya: The energetic stick dance, often performed with Garba.
  • Lavani: A traditional folk dance from Maharashtra.
  • Ghoomar: A graceful folk dance from Rajasthan.
  • Bengali Folk Dance: Exploring traditional dance forms from Bengal.

• Semi-Classical Dance: We also teach semi-classical Indian dance forms, which blend classical techniques with contemporary elements, offering a unique and expressive style.

• Bollywood Dance Classes: For those seeking a more modern and popular Indian dance style, we offer Bollywood dance classes, known for their expressive movements and energetic choreography, often incorporating fusion elements.

• Classes for Kids and Adults: Our enrollments are open throughout the year for students aged 5 and above, including both girls and boys. We have dedicated classes for children and adults, ensuring age-appropriate instruction and a comfortable learning environment for everyone.

• Online Classes: For remote students, DanceKarishma offers online courses, particularly for Kathak education. These include complete study guides (audio/video and theory) and weekly video submissions for instructor feedback, allowing students to learn from anywhere.

• Performance Opportunities: Students have numerous opportunities to showcase their skills, including performances at various community events like Holi, Diwali, and Indian Independence Day celebrations in and outside the Bay Area. We also hold an Annual Day celebration, typically in February/March/April, providing a major platform for students.

• Special One-on-One or Duet Sessions: DanceKarishma also provides specialized private sessions for individuals or duets interested in performing at weddings or other events, offering customized choreography at competitive prices.

These comprehensive services underscore DanceKarishma's commitment to promoting the rich culture of India through dance, catering to diverse needs and aspirations within the California community.

DanceKarishma stands out in the California dance landscape due to several exceptional features and highlights that define its unique value and appeal.

• Authentic Kathak Training with Formal Affiliation: A major highlight is the authentic instruction in Kathak, a classical Indian dance form. DanceKarishma is affiliated with "Akhil Bharteeya Gandharv Mahavidyalaya," providing a structured syllabus from Prarambhik to Visharad levels. This affiliation means students can pursue formal Kathak education and appear for recognized examinations, a significant advantage for those serious about classical dance. The teaching follows the esteemed Lucknow Gharana style.

• Expert and Passionate Founders: The school is driven by the passion of its founders, Jaya Sharma (Dance Director) and Nikhil Sharma (Managing Director). Jaya Sharma is a disciple of renowned Gurus, Ranjana Srivastava (Lucknow Gharana) and Shambhavi Dandekar (Banaras Gharana), with a history of winning numerous awards in classical dance competitions in India. This professional background ensures a high standard of artistic direction and instruction, bringing their "passion of dancing to life and others to encourage the classical touch."

• Diverse Range of Indian Dance Styles: Beyond Kathak, DanceKarishma offers an impressive array of Indian folk dance styles, including Garba, Dandiya, Lavani, Ghoomar, and Bengali Folk dance, alongside semi-classical and Bollywood dance. This rich variety allows students to explore different facets of Indian dance culture, ensuring there's something for everyone's taste and interest.

• Inclusivity for All Ages and Levels: DanceKarishma prides itself on being a welcoming place for all. Classes are open to "adults and kids from age 5 and above, girls and boys," and "no prior experience" is required. This inclusivity, coupled with the motto that "there is no age limit for dance," makes it an accessible and encouraging environment for beginners and experienced dancers alike.

• Abundant Performance Opportunities: The school emphasizes practical application and stage experience. Students regularly perform at various community events like Holi, Diwali, and Indian Independence Day celebrations, both within and outside the Bay Area. The annual "Kathakanjali" concert is a major event where students showcase their talents. This focus on performance helps build confidence and provides invaluable stage exposure.

• Online Learning Options: For students who cannot attend in-person classes, DanceKarishma offers comprehensive online courses for Kathak. These include full study guides and weekly video feedback, making high-quality instruction accessible remotely, which is a significant convenience for modern learners.

• Award-Winning History: DanceKarishma boasts an impressive track record of success in various competitions, including winning 1st prize in the FIA Dance Competition (adult group classical, 2009; adult group, 2008), and 3rd prize for junior folk group in 2008, among others. This history of accolades demonstrates the effectiveness of their training and the talent of their students.

These features collectively make DanceKarishma a highly recommended and truly enriching destination for Indian dance education in Cupertino.

For all inquiries regarding class schedules, enrollment, online course details, or any other information about our diverse Indian classical and folk dance programs, please do not hesitate to contact DanceKarishma using the information provided below. Our dedicated and passionate team is prepared to assist you and guide you through the process of joining our vibrant dance family.

Address:
1039 Pennington Ln,
Cupertino, CA 95014, USA

Phone:
(408) 348-2772

Mobile Phone:
+1 408-348-2772

We highly encourage prospective students and parents to reach out to us by phone. Speaking directly with our founders or instructors allows us to understand your specific dance goals, whether you are interested in formal Kathak examinations, recreational folk dance, or private wedding choreography, and recommend the most suitable classes for your age and skill level. We are committed to providing clear and helpful information to ensure a smooth and informed start to your dance journey. Your path to exploring the rich culture and joyful movements of Indian dance in Cupertino is just a phone call away!

In conclusion, DanceKarishma stands as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for locals in the California region, particularly those residing in Cupertino and its vibrant surrounding communities. Its convenient location at 1039 Pennington Ln, Cupertino, CA 95014, USA, offers optimal accessibility, ensuring it's a practical choice for families and individuals seeking high-quality Indian dance education without extensive travel.

The core suitability of DanceKarishma for local users lies in its authentic and comprehensive offering of Indian dance forms. With a strong emphasis on Kathak, affiliated with "Akhil Bharteeya Gandharv Mahavidyalaya" and teaching the esteemed Lucknow Gharana style, it provides a rare opportunity for rigorous classical training. This is complemented by a rich selection of Indian folk dances (Garba, Dandiya, Lavani, Ghoomar, Bengali Folk), semi-classical, and Bollywood dance, catering to a wide array of interests and ensuring there's a style for everyone.

The passion and expertise of founders Jaya Sharma and Nikhil Sharma, who balance their professional careers with their dedication to dance, create a genuinely inspiring environment. Their commitment to making dance accessible for "all ages and levels," with "no prior experience" required and "no age limit for dance," makes DanceKarishma incredibly welcoming for both children starting their cultural journey and adults rediscovering a passion for movement. This inclusive philosophy fosters a strong sense of community where everyone feels comfortable and encouraged to grow.

Furthermore, the numerous performance opportunities, including participation in major community events like Holi and Diwali celebrations, along with their own Annual Day concert, provide invaluable stage experience and build confidence for students. The option for formal Kathak examinations adds a layer of academic rigor for those seeking it, while online classes ensure flexibility for remote learners. DanceKarishma's award-winning history further solidifies its reputation as a top-tier dance institution. For any local resident in Cupertino and the wider California area looking for an authentic, fun, and comprehensive Indian dance education that celebrates culture and fosters personal growth, DanceKarishma is undoubtedly a premier choice and comes with the highest recommendation.

DanceKarishma

1039 Pennington Ln, Cupertino, CA 95014, USA