We offer a variety of different classes at South Asian Arts. Listed below are the programs we are currently offering. Be sure to check back regularly as we routinely add more to the list! All programs require a minimum 4 month contract. Family discounts are available. Private dance and music classes are also available upon request and we also book performances for private events. Please call 778.706.6224 or email info@southasianarts.ca for more information.
Dance Classes
![]()
Bhangra
1 hour per week // Beginner to advanced levels // Ages 6 & up
Fees: Sept-Dec: $175 // Jan-Apr: $175 // May-Jun: $100
Bhangra is a very lively form of folk music and dance that originated in the Punjab region of India. While Bhangra began as a part of harvest festival celebrations, it eventually became a part of such diverse occasions as weddings and New Year celebrations. During the last thirty years, Bhangra has surged in popularity worldwide, both in a traditional form and as a fusion with genres such as hip-hop, house, and reggae. As Bhangra continues to move into mainstream culture, we hope to take you there with it through our Bhangra program.
![]()
Gidha
1 hour per week // Beginner to advanced levels // Ages 6 & up
Fees: Sept-Dec: $175 // Jan-Apr: $175 // May-Jun: $100
Gidha is another popular folk dance of Punjab. Although men do Gidha in some regions of Punjab, it is primarily performed by women. It is just as energetic as Bhangra while creatively displaying feminine grace and elegance. Girls or women generally clap their hands and sing small, humourous couplets called Boliyan. The clapping is a prominent feature of this very colourful and energetic dance form.
![]()
Kathak
1 hour per week // Beginner to advanced levels // Ages 7 & up
Fees : Sept-Dec: $210 // Jan-Apr: $210 // May-Jun: $120
Kathak is a classical Indian dance from originating from Northern India. The technique includes elaborate hand gestures called mudras, footwork, facial expressions and precise positioning of the body. Grace, emotion and sophistication of gesture coupled with speed and precision give Kathak its essential qualities.
![]()
Party Dancing
1 hour per week // Beginner to advanced levels // Ages 16 & up
Sept-Dec: $140 // Jan-Apr: $140 // May-Jun: $80
Have you ever felt scared or embarrassed to step onto the dance floor? Whether it’s at a family wedding, a friend’s birthday, or an anniversary party, does the thought of having to dance stress you out? Well, you’re not alone. We’ve all felt that way at some point in our lives. It’s time to put an end to that fear! Due to incredible demand, we're starting a completely new class to bring out the dancer in you. With a combination of Bhangra, Gidha, and Bollywood dance moves, learn a repertoire of simple steps that will get you through any party with confidence! Walk away learning short routines to the latest songs, ready for you to take to the floor. Each class begins with a warm-up, ends with a cool-down, and is full of fun, fun, and even MORE fun!!!
![]()
Bhangra Workout
1 hour per week // Beginner to advanced levels // Ages 16 & up
Sept-Dec: $140 // Jan-Apr: $140 // May-Jun: $80 // Drop-in: $12/class
In a fun and cultural way these cardio classes will target trouble body areas for South Asian women. Burn those calories while learning high-energy, aerobic Bhangra dance movements in a fun and active environment. Practice at home or on any dance floor you like. Each class will include a warm-up, cool-down, and abdominal strength training.
![]()
Competitive Bhangra
Contact Us for more details.
If you're an experienced Bhangra dancer and you're looking for something beyond classes, then you may want to consider our competitive Bhangra team called P.A.N.J. (Pehchaan Apni Nachdi Jandi). The practice schedule can be gruelling and the choreography is challenging, but you'll have an opportunity to travel across North America going head-to-head with the best Bhangra teams in the continent, all while making life-long friendships along the way. Try-outs are held regularly and having fun is always the main goal, but we like to win just as much as the next guy. It's thanks to hard work and dedication that we've been ranked the 4th best Bhangra team across North America for the past two years!
Music Classes
**NOTE: Instruments are available for rent at a charge of $50/semester PLUS damage deposit (damage deposit varies depending on instrument).
![]()
Dhol
1 hour per week // Beginner to advanced levels // Ages 8 & up
Fees: Sept-Dec: $245 // Jan-Apr: $245 // May-Jun: $140
A Dhol is a traditional North Indian percussion instrument made from wood and it is played with two sticks called a 'dagga' and a 'tilli'. The farmers of the Northern Indian regions would traditionally celebrate a good harvest by dancing and singing songs to the beat of the Dhol. Students will learn the basic techniques of playing the Dhol, as well as the vocabulary required for reading different beats. Classes are led by Rayman Bhullar and Gurpreet Sian.
![]()
Tabla
1 hour per week // Beginner to advanced levels // Ages 8 & up
Fees: Sept-Dec: $245 // Jan-Apr: $245 // May-Jun: $140
The tabla is a widely popular South Asian percussion instrument used in Indian classical, popular and religious music. The instrument consists of a pair of hand drums, each of a different size and shape. Students will gain a proper foundation in playing this instrument, including Tabla stroke technique, recitation of Bols (the spoken language of the Tabla), Taal (Indian rhythms) and a bit of theory as well. Classes are lead by master musician, Mohamed Assani.
![]()
Sitar
1 hour per week // Beginner to advanced levels // Ages 8 & up
Fees: Sept-Dec: $245 // Jan-Apr: $245 // May-Jun: $140
The Sitar is a stringed instrument consisting of both plucked strings and resonance strings. Since the Middle Ages, it has been predominantly used in classical Indian music. The resonance strings, a long hollow neck and a large resonating chamber create the Sitar’s unique, resonating sound. Sitar students will gain a proper foundation in playing this instrument, including basic instrumental techniques, taal & raag (rhythm & melody) and a bit of theory & history too.
Back to Top