South Asian Arts and iLearn DL Secondary School offer students high school credits in Bhangra dancing and Dhol drumming at no cost.
This fall, Grade 10 to 12 students in Greater Vancouver will be able to earn elective credits in Bhangra dancing and Dhol drumming at South Asian Arts and iLearn DL Secondary School.
Bhangra is a folk art originating from Northern India. Similar to hip-hop in terms of storytelling, specific choreography and visual aesthetics, Bhangra has had a local evolution and resurgence of sorts, especially with the competitive scene.
With over 45 years of combined experience, instructors Gurp Sian and Rayman Bhuller have championed Bhangra as an art form in Greater Vancouver. Now they are bringing Bhangra dance skills, music, theory and community experience to high school students.
"We use basic patterns and styling of Bhangra and combine them with modern steps. Essentially, this is how the dance form has evolved and become popular in Greater Vancouver," said Sian and Bhuller.
While the main focus is introductory skills, the courses also include an element of history, storytelling and the celebration of diversity by empowering students through dance, music and culture. The group format of the classes fosters student social skills like respect, confidence and teamwork.
"The courses are welcoming and engaging for students who want to try something new, regardless of their level of dance or movement experience."
As an incentive to express themselves, students will engage in different styles of dance and music, connect to numerous intercultural collaborations, develop positive relationships with the extensive local and global Bhangra network and have the potential to also earn volunteer credits.
Sian and Bhuller, who also teach Bhangra at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, developed choreography that is representative of the traditional dance styling, but is accessible to a wider audience.
South Asian Arts has been a leader in the arts and culture Bhangra scene since 2005 and performed at numerous events during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, including the opening ceremonies.
If you want to have fun, stay in shape and earn high school credits, contact iLearn DL Secondary School at 604-590-5504 or register online at www.southasianarts.ca. Bhangra & Dhol courses are held outside of school hours at South Asian Arts Studio, located at 114-12827 76th Avenue in Surrey and are FREE of charge. Spaces are limited so register today!
