Orissi, one of the major classical dance styles of India, combines both rhythmic movement and expressive mime. This class will be devoted to the principles of Orissi dance: the synthesis of foot, wrist, hand and face movement in a lyrical flow to express the philosophy of yoga. Throughout the quarter we will study tala (rhythm). Students will keep a journal of class notes, discuss the readings and have cross-cultural dialogues.

Students entering this course should have completed Orissi, Beginning I. The class will focus on technique, music (especially raga), tala or rhythm patterns used in Orissi dance, and both the nrtta (pure dance) and the abhinaya (mimetic dance) components. We will be working with nuances in wrist work, facial expressions and torso work, legato upper body balanced with firm footwork. Finally, we will hone dance criticism skills.