Natya Dance Theatre

For families and individuals across Illinois, particularly those in the vibrant city of Chicago, who seek an authentic and enriching experience in Indian classical dance, Natya Dance Theatre stands as a revered institution. Founded in 1975 by the internationally acclaimed dancer, teacher, and choreographer Smt. Hema Rajagopalan, Natya Dance Theatre is dedicated to preserving and perpetuating Bharatanatyam in all its classical rigor, while also innovating to foster cultural exchange through dance. This critically acclaimed and culturally treasured organization is a beacon for those looking to connect with a rich artistic heritage right here in our community.

At the heart of Natya Dance Theatre's success is its unique pedagogical approach, deeply rooted in the philosophy of its founder, Hema Rajagopalan. A prodigy who began her Bharatanatyam training at the age of six in Chennai, India, Hema Rajagopalan's journey led her to establish Natya in Chicago, initially teaching a small number of children from her living room to connect them with their cultural heritage. Over four decades later, this homespun operation has evolved into an internationally recognized professional company and training academy. Students and parents consistently praise her "disciplined yet gentle" teaching style, noting how she "really takes the time to teach them to love the art form." This nurturing environment extends to all students, including adults, as one satisfied parent shared, being so impressed with her teaching, they recently joined the adult classes themselves. Supported by a dedicated team including her daughter and Associate Artistic Director, Krithika Rajagopalan, Natya Dance Theatre is committed to bringing out the best in each student, fostering meaningful friendships, and instilling life lessons far beyond dance steps, ensuring a thriving and resilient learning process even through challenging times.

Natya Dance Theatre is conveniently located at 410 S Michigan Ave #725, Chicago, IL 60605, USA. This address places the studio within Chicago's historic Fine Arts Building, a hub of artistic and cultural activity in the city's downtown Loop area. This prime location ensures excellent accessibility for students and families commuting from various neighborhoods across Chicago and the broader Illinois region. The Fine Arts Building is easily reachable via multiple public transportation options, including CTA train lines (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red) and numerous bus routes, making it convenient for those who rely on public transit.

The central location within such a prestigious building not only offers a professional and inspiring environment for dance education but also contributes to the studio's integration into Chicago's vibrant arts scene. For local families, this means less time spent commuting and more time dedicated to the art form. The studio's commitment to continuing the learning process even during challenging times, such as the pandemic, by accommodating online learning, further enhances its accessibility and adaptability, ensuring that students can maintain their connection to Bharatanatyam regardless of external circumstances.

• Comprehensive Bharatanatyam dance instruction for youth and adults, from beginners to advanced levels.
• Training in the classical rigor of Bharatanatyam, encompassing expressive (abhinaya) and technical (nrita) elements.
• Specialized teaching that fosters a deep love and appreciation for the ancient Indian art form.
• Structured curriculum designed to bring out the best in each student, whether for personal enrichment or performance.
• Opportunities for students to engage in stage performances and cultural showcases, building confidence and stage presence.
• A nurturing environment that emphasizes discipline, patience, and the development of meaningful friendships.
• Adaptable learning formats, including successful accommodation for online learning, ensuring continuity of instruction.
• Community outreach programs that bring Bharatanatyam to schools, universities, museums, libraries, and other organizations through performances, workshops, and lecture-demonstrations.
• Presentation of prominent Indian dancers and performing artists from around the world through a dedicated presenting series.

• Internationally Acclaimed Leadership: Founded and led by Smt. Hema Rajagopalan, a world-renowned Bharatanatyam dancer, teacher, and choreographer who has received numerous prestigious awards, including Emmy and multiple National Endowment for the Arts Choreography Awards.
• Authentic and Rigorous Training: Students receive training comparable to traditional methods in India, ensuring a deep understanding and mastery of Bharatanatyam in its classical form.
• Nurturing and Gentle Teaching Style: Instructors, particularly Hema Rajagopalan, are praised for being "disciplined yet gentle" and for taking the time to instill a genuine love for the art form in their students.
• Holistic Student Development: Beyond dance techniques, the school helps children learn "much more than just dance," fostering life skills and creating "meaningful friendships."
• Adaptability and Resilience: The school successfully transitioned to online learning during the pandemic, ensuring students continued their progress and engagement, with some even learning "much more now than before."
• Strong Family and Community Focus: The studio is described as a place where families feel blessed to have such dedicated teachers, creating a supportive and interconnected community.
• Critically Acclaimed Performing Company: Natya Dance Theatre is one of the most celebrated Indian dance companies in the U.S., performing innovative and profound works globally, showcasing the highest caliber of the art form.
• Extensive Community Outreach: Through nearly 40 programs annually, Natya brings Bharatanatyam to over 20,000 people in schools, museums, and community centers, fostering cultural understanding across diverse audiences.

For residents of Chicago and the broader Illinois region interested in exploring the world of Bharatanatyam or enrolling in classes at Natya Dance Theatre, please use the following contact details:

Address: 410 S Michigan Ave #725, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Phone: (312) 212-1240

Mobile Phone: +1 312-212-1240

Connecting directly with Natya Dance Theatre is the best way to get comprehensive information about their class schedules, enrollment procedures, performance opportunities, and the unique approach that makes them a leader in Indian classical dance. Their dedicated team can guide you through the process of joining this esteemed artistic family.

For families and individuals throughout Illinois, especially within Chicago, Natya Dance Theatre stands as an unparalleled local resource for engaging with the profound art of Bharatanatyam. Under the legendary leadership of Smt. Hema Rajagopalan, students receive instruction that is both deeply disciplined and profoundly gentle, fostering not just technical prowess but also a true love and passion for this ancient dance form. The glowing testimonials, where parents compare the training favorably to their own experiences in India decades ago, underscore the exceptional quality and authenticity of the education offered.

The studio's adaptability, particularly its success in transitioning to online learning, highlights its dedication to continuous student development, even amidst challenges. This commitment, combined with the nurturing environment that encourages meaningful friendships and life skill development, makes Natya Dance Theatre far more than just a place to learn dance steps. It’s a community where children and adults can connect with their cultural heritage, explore artistic expression, and grow as individuals. For anyone in Illinois seeking world-class Bharatanatyam training within a supportive and culturally enriching environment, Natya Dance Theatre is undoubtedly a premier choice, offering a truly blessed and transformative experience.

Natya Dance Theatre

410 S Michigan Ave #725, Chicago, IL 60605, USA