Nurturing the Future of Bharatanatyam
At the heart of Seeta Patel Dance is a commitment to continuous learning and artistic growth. SPD believes in investing in the next generation of Bharatanatyam dancers and choreographers, ensuring they have the skills, experience, and opportunities to thrive in the professional dance industry.
Recognising the underrepresentation of South Asian artists in British dance, SPD is actively addressing the gap in pathways for Bharatanatyam artists, particularly beyond the age of 16, where opportunities significantly decline. The SPD Talent Development Programme is designed to provide structured, high-quality professional learning, bridging this gap and cultivating a new wave of talent that will contribute to both Bharatanatyam and the wider contemporary dance scene.
About the Talent Development Programme
SPD’s Talent Development Programme supports early-career Bharatanatyam dancers and choreographers, with a focus on ensemble work and choreographic development. The programme provides a comprehensive package of mentorship, financial support, studio time, and professional development, enabling artists to refine their practice and establish sustainable careers.
Now in its third year, the programme will continue to support mentees, equipping them with the resources, guidance, and industry exposure needed to flourish in the competitive dance landscape while contributing to the evolution of Bharatanatyam and contemporary performance.
Spearheaded by award-winning choreographer and dancer Seeta Patel, the Company creates live stage performances which focus on classical Indian and contemporary dance and dance theatre.
Artistic Director Seeta Patel, started her journey at the age of 10 as Bharatanatyam student, and by the age of 23 had transitioned to becoming a full time professional dancer. As an independent artist, Seeta has been very lucky to work with numerous talented choreographers, companies and collaborators over the years which has given her a diverse experience and creative inspiration. Now as the Artistic Director of Seeta Patel Dance, she looks forward to growing the pool of wonderful people The Company can work with across the globe.
1. Mentorship & Coaching
Personalised Guidance: Each participant receives one-on-one mentoring with Seeta Patel, tailored to their artistic ambitions and career goals.
Group Coaching: Collaborative sessions foster a shared learning environment, encouraging mentees to exchange ideas and strengthen their choreographic skills.
Life Coaching: SPD partners with professional coaches to support the holistic development of artists, ensuring their well-being and career sustainability.
2. Studio Time & Creative Resources
Paid Studio Time: Each mentee is granted one week of paid studio space, allowing them to experiment and develop their creative work without financial barriers.
Collaborative Practice: Participants serve as artistic resources for each other, cultivating an environment where peer feedback and experimentation are encouraged.
3. Financial & Logistical Support
Paid Participation: Mentees receive financial compensation, recognising the value of their time and artistic labour.
Travel & Accommodation: SPD covers travel, accommodation, and food expenses when mentees must work away from their home base, ensuring accessibility for artists from different regions.
4. Long-Term Development & Industry Exposure
Sustained Mentorship: The programme fosters ongoing engagement beyond its formal structure, offering long-term professional support.
Performance & Showcasing: Participants have the opportunity to present their work in an informal showcase, gaining industry visibility and valuable performance experience.
Career Progression: SPD actively seeks ways to integrate mentees into professional productions, collaborations, and commissions, ensuring they have clear pathways into employment and artistic recognition.
As SPD continues to grow, the Talent Development Programme will expand, providing even more opportunities for South Asian dancers and choreographers to develop their artistry at the highest level. SPD remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive, sustainable, and world-class professional environment for Bharatanatyam within the UK and beyond.
Through this initiative, SPD is building a legacy of artistic excellence, ensuring that the rich traditions of Bharatanatyam evolve and thrive within the global dance landscape.
For more information on the SPD Talent Development Programme, contact admin@seetapateldance.org