What is Semi Classical dance?

Semi-classical dance is an art form that features extensive dance movements of the dancer’s body while maintaining grace along with expressions and speed. The Semi-classical dance steps are not as complicated or complex as in classical styles. 

Semi-classical dance does not have boundaries like classical dance. Compared to classical dance, semi-classical dance is not strictly bound to posture and expression. It is one of the versions of classical dance which includes some entertainment based and is played\composed on some tracks\songs for the duration 3 to 4 mins and can include some of the classical dance postures (not exact foot movement).

Style of Semi-Classical dance

The modern style of this kind of dance is different from the classical dance’s style structures and forms. In semi-classical dance, classical and folk dance are combined and performed. 

The current generation of dancers wants to explore creativity, while using the classical technique. They liked the style of semi-classical dance. Semi-classical dances don't have as many moves as classical dances. Dance is the art of moving your body and making movements. 

Mudras

Mudras and the posture of the dancer are not essential in semi-classical dance. It involves the steps of classical dance and incorporates modern and folk dance that creates an engaging and eye-glazing performance. 

Semi-classical dance moves are always tied in with understanding the mind-body-soul connection. Below are a few mudras in semi-classical dance

• Pataka: This is a hand mudra in which you keep your palms open. It translates to a cloud or forest. 
• Shikhara: In this mudra, you keep your fist closed and keep your thumb upright.
• Chandrakala: This hand mudra exhibits a closed fist. Your thumb and index finger will stick out.
• Trishula: In this mudra, you only have to keep your index finger, middle finger, and ring finger upright , facing the sky. 
• Tripataka: This hand mudra exhibits your hands open (fingers touching) and your ring finger is bending halfway down.

Musical Instruments

Instruments used in semi-classical dance can be a mix of some classical instruments and more western musical instruments.

Attire

Costumes in semi-classical are theme-based like saavan, sangeet, and semi-traditional, and it can depend on the track played. 

The hairstyle can be indo-western, loose hair. Make-up and jewelry are also worn according to the event\track\theme etc.

Kathak is the most mesmerizing dance form woven around the concept of storytelling. 

Click here to know more about the different concepts related to charming dance mudras, and footwork such as Guru Purnima & Kathakali Dance Of Which State.