ARE you a fan of Bollywood movies? And do you harbour a secret wish to be able to dance in such abandonment and coordination? Apsara Asia is a new studio in town and although it's not the first to offer Bollywood dance sessions, it's offering them in a few different formats to meet the needs of fitness buffs and performers.
'We're designing classes for those who've caught the Bollywood and Bhangra fever, who want to do it for fun, and also classes for those who want to do it as a form of fitness, and for those who want to really learn it with the possibility of performance,' explains Kavitha Krishnan, the studio's creative director.
For those who're looking at performance, the eight-session courses will be conducted with 'props' like scarves and bangles, 'So they can feel the colours of Bollywood!' says Ms Krishnan.
After eight sessions ($15 per class), participants would have learnt enough to put on a dance. 'This is something new. It's a way for people to see what they've learnt in eight weeks, and also a way for us to identify young talents,' she adds. Apsara Asia also has a performing arm, such as the night of Bollywood showcase it held at The Esplanade last year.
For the fitness version, the movements are more rigorous and repetitive. 'But it's higher on the fun and engagement levels rather than on impact. You will enjoy what you do, but it may not have the impact of aerobics, for instance. What happens is the class will also be tailored to bring out your creative side,' she says.
Ms Krishnan, who's also an occupational therapist, also teaches Bollywood dance to children and adults with disabilities. 'Bollywood dance enables the motor skills and cognitive abilities to connect . . . emotion and motion,' she says.
The classes will kick off in March. Meanwhile, Apsara is holding a free dance day at its premises tomorrow from 10am to 4pm, to showcase their range of Bollywood and yoga classes.
