Bhangra (from Punjab, India)
by Vicki Virk
Indulge your body and soul with a unique rhythmic experience. Learn the art of Bhangra! a dance like no other that will take your body and soul into new realms.What is Bhangra?
Bhangra is an upbeat, energetic, and vibrant folk dance from North India, Punjab Region. Traditionally done to celebrate the harvest, Bhangra can now be seen at any and all festive occasions celebrated in India particularly weddings. It's perhaps the most vigourous forms of South Asian Dances, but also the most free spirited, down to earth, and fun. The main instrument is a large barrel size drum called the dhol. Its hypnotic beats are so contagious and can lure even the most dedicated of wallflowers onto the floor. Bhangra is a such a joyous form of dance that you will be engulfed in its spirit of celebration as soon as you experience it.Instructor Vicki was born and raised in punjab, India, where bhangra originated. She has been dancing to bhangra all of her life. Though she became an attorney, her love and passion for dance inspired her to start her own company called Dholrhythms, that allows her to share her enthusiasm for bhangra through classes, workshops, performances, and events all over the Bay Area. She currently teaches as many as 10-14 regular weekly classes at different studios, and afterschool kids' programs. She also leads her own dance troupe made up of women from diverse backgrounds, each of whom started off as a student in one of the classes. Dholrhythms dance troupe has been seen mesmerizing audiences with their upbeat, and unique performances at some of the most well known venues in San Francisco including, Sony Metreon, Fort Mason, The Fillmore, The Mezannine, DeYoung Museum, The Supper Club, DNA Lounge, 111 Minna Gallery, 1015 Folsom and many many more.
Vicki is also the founder of NonStop Bhangra (NSB), a monthly event in San Francisco which combines live dhol (drum) & tabla players, dance performances/lessons, visuals, painters and DJ's all dedicated to celebrating the spirit of Bhangra and keeping the vibe focused on making you dance non stop! Global grooves rarely taste as good as what you will find at Non Stop Bhangra. Started as an outlet for Vicki's students, the event has grown into an amazing community that's making its mark in the San Francisco Culture. The event has been featured in SF Weekly, The Chronicle, SF Bay Guardian, as well as the May issue of SF Magazine this year.
"I love teaching bhangra because it is a celebration of life. It's done with energy, zest, passion, and that's exactly how life should be lived. I want my class to be an outlet for people to express themselves freely in an open and fun atmosphere. I also think dancing is the most enjoyable form of fitness, and this class will work out your body by indulging your dancing spirits." ~vicki v~
For more information on dholrhythms, Vicki Virk, or bhangra, please visit www.dholrhythms.com or www.nonstopbhangra.com
