Ishti Collective is proud to present a series of dance intensives with Sarmishtha Sarkar, an internationally recognized performer, choreographer, and mentor with extensive experience across the U.S., India, and Europe.

Why take this workshop series?
Her mentorship has informed the creative practice of Ishti, particularly in cultivating nuanced expression and narrative-driven work and we are excited to share it with all. This intensive is a rare opportunity to work personally and closely with a true master of performance with decades of expertise and accolades. Sarkar is also a master teacher and mentor. While deeply rooted in Bharatanatyam, Sarkar’s pedagogical approach extends across movement traditions.

What’s this workshop series about?
In this workshop, she will pull something new out of every participant, regardless of their artistic background. Her workshops focus on abhinaya (expressive storytelling), clarity of intention and physical articulation, narrative development, rhythmic frameworks, and choreographic methodologies.

How is the series organized?
The intensive is designed as a flexible, modular experience. Participants may enroll in individual workshops or the full series. Participants will have the option to continue into a performance scheduled for July 9–11 as part of Movement of Many: 10 Years of Ishti. Participants must have attended at least 1 of the workshops and must attend the culminating session on Wednesday, July 8 (6–9 pm).  The July 8 evening session will focus on integrating material developed throughout the workshops into a collaboratively generated short work. 

Who is this designed for?
Movers with some prior dance experience in any genre. 

Where will the workshops take place?
July 5 and 7 Location: Mess Hall | 3429 W North Avenue, First Floor
July 6 Location: 1749 S Halsted Street, 1F
July 8 Location: bim bom | 5226 W Belmont Avenue

Questions? Email us at kinnari@ishticolective.org

• July 5, 12-2 pm | Choreography: Beginning a Work

  How do you start making a dance? This session focuses on entry points into choreography—working with impulses, images, themes, and structure. Participants will explore ways to generate material, shape ideas, and begin building a movement vocabulary that can grow into a larger work. 

• July 5, 3–5 pm | Abhinaya: Expression & Presence

  An introduction to abhinaya—the art of expression through face. We’ll work with subtle shifts in gaze, facial articulation, and physical intention to communicate emotion and meaning. Useful for any dancer looking to deepen presence and connection with an audience.

• July 6, 10–12 pm | Rhythm as a Creative Tool

  Using rhythm not just as timing, but as a way to generate movement and structure. Drawing from Bharatanatyam frameworks, this session explores patterns, musicality, and how rhythm can guide phrasing, dynamics, and choreographic choices across forms.

• July 6, 7–9 pm | Rhythm II

  A deeper exploration of rhythm through creating, structuring, and embodying your own rhythmic compositions and patterns.

• July 7, 10–12 pm | Abhinaya II: Refining Expression

  This session deepens work on expression—integrating face, body, and intention. We’ll focus on nuance, transitions between emotional states, and sustaining clarity in performance.

• July 7, 7–9 pm | Choreography: Mind, Body, Space

  Expanding choreographic tools by working with spatial design, internal intention, and physical awareness. How do we place movement in space? How does the body hold and transmit ideas? This session connects composition, presence, and spatial relationships.

What does this workshop cost?
Workshop fees: $20-$40 sliding scale per workshop

• TIER 1: $40 – True Cost
  Reflects the full cost of the workshop, including space rental, and supports fair artist compensation

• TIER 2: $30 – Standard Rate
  A partially subsidized rate for the community

• TIER 3: $20 – Access Rate
  For students, emerging artists, and those facing financial barriers