Natraj Dance Academy

- 110 W Camp McDonald Rd, Prospect Heights, IL 60070

Natraj Dance Academy, located in the Chicago suburb of Prospect Heights, is a pillar of Indian classical dance education in Illinois. Established in 1983 by Vijayalakshmi Shetty, the academy has dedicated itself to the noble mission of promoting and preserving Indian heritage and culture through the ancient and beautiful art of dance. Over the decades, it has grown to become one of the leading Indian classical dance schools in the Chicago area, training thousands of students and fostering a deep appreciation for these traditional art forms. For families in and around the Chicago metropolitan region, Natraj Dance Academy provides a unique and enriching opportunity to connect with Indian culture and receive expert dance instruction.

The philosophy of the academy is rooted in providing sound training in both the practice and theory of various classical dance styles. The curriculum is meticulously structured to build a strong foundation, starting with basic footsteps and hand gestures and progressing to advanced techniques and expressional forms. The goal is not only to create skilled dancers but also to instill a profound respect for the cultural significance behind each movement. This holistic approach ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of the art form, whether they are pursuing dance for recreation or with pre-professional aspirations. The academy’s long-standing history and extensive alumni network—with over 200 students completing their arangetrams (debut performances)—speak to its success and influence in the local community.

Natraj Dance Academy is committed to making classical Indian dance accessible to all. Its mission includes providing high-quality dance training while keeping tuition costs low, allowing more children and adults to learn these ancient art forms. This dedication to accessibility, combined with its reputation for excellence, has made it a cherished institution in the Chicago suburbs. The school’s focus on fostering a love for dance in a disciplined yet nurturing environment makes it an ideal place for young and old alike to begin or continue their dance journey. Its reputation as a place "good for kids" underscores its family-friendly atmosphere and its success in engaging and inspiring younger generations.

For those seeking to explore the richness of Indian classical dance, Natraj Dance Academy offers a genuine and authentic experience. The school teaches several classical dance styles from India, including Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam. Students also receive training in semi-classical and folk dancing, providing a well-rounded dance education. This breadth of offerings ensures that students can explore different facets of Indian dance and find the style that resonates most with them. The academy’s commitment to keeping with the "strict traditions of these ancient arts" ensures that the training is authentic and of the highest caliber.

Natraj Dance Academy is conveniently situated at 110 W Camp McDonald Rd in Prospect Heights, IL 60070. Its location in the north and northwest suburbs of Chicago makes it easily reachable for residents of Prospect Heights, as well as those in nearby communities like Niles, Schaumburg, Hanover Park, Buffalo Grove, Long Grove, and Grayslake. The academy's commitment to accessibility is evident in its facilities, which include a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. This feature ensures that the school is welcoming to all members of the community, making it a truly inclusive place to learn and grow.

While the primary location is in Prospect Heights, the academy serves the wider community through several other locations, making it a convenient option for families across the area. The school's broad reach and multiple locations demonstrate its commitment to serving the Indian and dance communities throughout the Chicago suburbs. Whether you live close to the Prospect Heights location or another one of their satellite studios, you can benefit from their expert instruction and enriching programs. The accessibility and convenience of their locations are a key part of their value proposition, allowing more people to engage with and benefit from their cultural offerings.

The curriculum at Natraj Dance Academy is designed to provide a robust and progressive learning experience. Students are taught not only the physical movements but also the theory and expressions essential to these dance forms. The syllabus covers everything from basic footwork to essential expressions and advanced dance items. This comprehensive approach ensures that students develop a deep and lasting appreciation for the art, understanding its stories and emotional depth. The academy’s dedication to a structured and comprehensive curriculum sets it apart, ensuring that students receive a world-class education in Indian classical dance.

Beyond the classroom, the academy provides performance opportunities, with many students going on to perform professionally. The success of its alumni is a testament to the quality of training provided. This focus on performance and professional development makes Natraj Dance Academy an excellent choice for those with serious aspirations in dance. It’s a place where students can not only learn but also grow into confident and skilled performers, ready to share the beauty of Indian dance with the world.

Services Offered

• Indian Classical Dance classes
• Training in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam
• Home dance training
• Training in semi-classical and folk dancing
• Dance programs for children and adults
• Comprehensive dance training with a focus on both practice and theory

Features / Highlights

• Established in 1983, making it one of the oldest in the Chicago area
• Mission to promote and preserve Indian heritage and culture
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• Good for kids
• Experienced instructors and a structured curriculum
• Affordable tuition costs to ensure accessibility
• Multiple locations serving the Chicago suburbs

Contact Information

• Address: 110 W Camp McDonald Rd, Prospect Heights, IL 60070, USA
• Phone: (847) 634-4679

What is worth choosing

Natraj Dance Academy is a truly exceptional choice for anyone in the Chicago area seeking high-quality Indian classical dance education. Its long-standing reputation, established since 1983, signifies a legacy of excellence and a deep commitment to its mission. The academy is one of the few places in the region that provides sound, traditional training in multiple Indian classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam. The curriculum is meticulously designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both the physical movements and the theoretical and cultural aspects of the dance. This ensures a truly enriching and authentic learning experience. The school is highly regarded for being "good for kids," and its ability to engage young learners in the intricacies of these art forms is a testament to the quality of its instructors and programs. Furthermore, the academy's commitment to accessibility, evidenced by its low tuition costs and wheelchair-accessible parking, makes it an inclusive and welcoming institution for the entire community. For local residents of Illinois, Natraj Dance Academy is not just a dance school; it is a gateway to a rich cultural heritage, offering a structured, supportive, and accessible environment to learn and appreciate the timeless beauty of Indian classical dance.

Natraj Dance Academy

110 W Camp McDonald Rd, Prospect Heights, IL 60070, USA