Alisha dance india dance biography books

Alisha chinai child

Alisha Desai is a Sarah Lawrence graduate and a Brooklyn-based artist since As a professional dancer, choreographer, visual artist, and educator, Alisha had been developing her craft over the last 15 years. Alisha first discovered her passion for Indian dance when she spent a year abroad intensively training in Bharatanatyam Indian classical dance at Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, India.

While working with top artists in the field, Alisha has worked on cultivating her own independent dance style and creative expression. Recently, she was the choreographer for the off-broadway production of Song of Joy. She has taken on many solo projects including live performances, video projects, and workshops. She has performed nationally and internationally and loves sharing her craft with diverse audiences locally and around the globe.

Alisha has extensive teaching experience and is passionate about sharing her art and culture with diverse communities. She has lead many residency programs, workshops, and private choreography lessons. Her designs reflect her passion for dance and draw inspiration from her multicultural upbringing and from pop art. Alisha strives to grow as an artist, to inspire, and to be inspired by the community around her!

During this Bollywood Dance residency, students immerse themselves in the dynamic world of Indian dance, delving into various styles such as Garba, Bhangra, and classical forms. Through interactive lessons, students will discover the cultural roots of each dance, including their origins, significance in festivals, and the diverse communities that embrace them.

Emphasizing active participation, the residency aims to foster a sense of joy in movement while encouraging self-expression through choreographed sequences. Students will develop skills in both following instructions and memorizing routines, with opportunities for creative exploration through games like freeze dance toward the end of the sessions.

Dance and choreography by Alisha Desai. Teaching Artist Profile.