Chapter 14: Natya

Learning Outcomes

• Understands storytelling
• Actively participates in making of natya
• Shares and collaborates with eagerness
• Imaginatively uses all aspects of performance in making this presentation

Summary

• Natya is storytelling through performance, incorporating dance elements.
• Example story: Grandma tells the story of Krishna and the snake Kaliya, using dialogues, music, and dramatic narration.
• Importance of collaboration and creativity in enacting stories with dance and movement.
• Traditional performances begin with a salutation to seek blessings.

Key Elements

• Props and Costumes:
  • Peacock feather
  • Flute
  • Dhoti for Krishna character
  • Blue dupatta to symbolize the river
  • Masks for animals

Important Concepts

• Salutation and Benediction:
  • Every performance starts and ends with gratitude and blessings.
  • Example of a benediction:
    • Om sarve bhavantu sukhinah... (May all living beings be at peace)

Activity

• Practice and present the story with dance and movement as a grand finale.

Chapter 14: Natya

Overview

• Natya is storytelling through performance, incorporating dance elements, dialogues, musical elements, and costumes.

Learning Outcomes

• Understands storytelling
• Actively participates in making of natya
• Shares and collaborates with eagerness
• Imaginatively uses all aspects of performance in making this presentation

Examples of Assessment

• Make one sentence using hastas
• Project work: One sequence of dance movement in rhythm | - How many postures can they demonstrate with proper understanding and correlate accurately with sculpture
• Whether dance movement sequence is done with understanding the patterns practiced
• Proper use of hands for conversation
• Content of project work | | Group of 3 or 4 | - Comfort and coordination in using hip movements
• Putting together a performance with a story | - Creativity
• Collaborative attitude |

Choreography Sections

• Movements of Kaliya and reactions of the children: Use twisting and circular hip movements for Kaliya. Show fear through expressions.
• Fight between Krishna and Kaliya: Suitable steps and rhythm for a fight sequence, including jumps, spins, and hastas.
• Celebration after the defeat of Kaliya: Compose a celebratory dance using a song or bandishes from music class.
• Benediction: Compose a benediction using hastas.

Costumes and Props

• Peacock feather
• Flute
• Dhoti for Krishna character
• A blue dupatta to symbolize the river
• Masks for animals

Salutation and Benediction

• Salutation Example:

Common Mistakes and Exam Tips

Common Pitfalls

• Lack of Understanding of Storytelling: Students may struggle to convey the essence of the story through their performance.
• Improper Use of Hastas: Failing to demonstrate the correct hand gestures (hastas) can lead to miscommunication of the story's themes.
• Neglecting Music Selection: Choosing inappropriate music for different sections of the performance can disrupt the flow and emotional impact.
• Inadequate Collaboration: Group projects may suffer if students do not actively participate or share ideas, leading to a disjointed performance.

Tips for Success

• Practice Body Postures: Ensure that students can demonstrate various postures accurately, correlating them with the story's elements.
• Engage in Group Discussions: Encourage collaboration and sharing of ideas to enhance creativity and cohesiveness in performances.
• Select Appropriate Music: Discuss and choose music that aligns with the mood and rhythm of each performance section.
• Incorporate Dance Elements: Remind students to integrate dance movements thoughtfully into their storytelling to enhance engagement and understanding.