Performing Art in the Indian Context for Elementary Stage: Methods, Materials, Allied Tools, Props, etc.

 

By Dr. Vikram Kumar

Abstract:

Performing arts play a significant role in nurturing creativity, self-expression, and cultural understanding among elementary school students. In the Indian context, various traditional and contemporary art forms provide a rich tapestry of methods, materials, allied tools, and props for enhancing the performing arts education experience. This paper aims to explore the diverse range of performing arts in the Indian context, their associated methodologies, materials, and the utilization of allied tools and props in elementary stage performances. Examples are provided to support the analysis and highlight the cultural significance of these art forms.

1. Introduction:

Performing arts encompass a wide array of artistic disciplines, including music, dance, theater, and folk traditions. In the Indian context, these art forms are deeply rooted in the country's cultural heritage and continue to be an integral part of elementary stage education. This paper will examine the methods, materials, allied tools, and props employed in Indian performing arts, showcasing their significance and impact on the development of elementary stage students.

2. Methods:

2.1. Music:

Indian classical music, such as Hindustani and Carnatic, form the foundation of music education in elementary schools. Students learn vocal and instrumental techniques through traditional compositions and ragas. Methodologies like "Swar Vistar" (expansion of notes) and "Alankar" (musical ornamentation) are employed to develop their musical abilities. Materials utilized include harmonium, tabla, tanpura, and electronic keyboards.

2.2. Dance:

Indian classical dances like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, and Kathakali are taught to elementary students, fostering discipline, grace, and storytelling skills. Dance methodologies include "adavus" (basic dance units), "abhinaya" (expression), and "mudras" (hand gestures). Allied tools such as ankle bells (ghungroo), costumes, and makeup enhance the visual appeal and traditional aesthetics of dance performances.

2.3. Theater:

Theater education in India introduces children to the world of storytelling, improvisation, and stagecraft. Students learn various acting techniques, voice modulation, and character development. Methods like "natyadharmi" (stylized acting) and "lokadharmi" (realistic acting) are taught. Props, such as masks, puppets, and simple set designs, are used to create visually engaging performances.

3. Materials:

At the elementary level, the use of materials in theater is an essential aspect that allows young performers to create imaginative and visually appealing productions. Different materials can be employed to craft costumes, set designs, and props, enabling students to express their creativity and enhance their theatrical experience. For instance, in a production of "The Jungle Book," materials like faux fur, feathers, and vibrant fabrics can be used to create costumes that embody the animal characters, such as Mowgli, Baloo, or Bagheera. These materials not only help actors transform into their roles but also engage the audience's imagination. Additionally, materials like cardboard, fabric, and paint can be utilized to construct and decorate the set, bringing the story's setting to life. For example, in a performance of "Peter Pan," cardboard cutouts can be painted and assembled to create a magical Neverland landscape. By incorporating a variety of materials, young theater enthusiasts are encouraged to explore their artistic abilities while actively participating in the storytelling process. (Example sources: KidsPlayandCreate.com - "The Importance of Props in a Play" and DramaResource.com - "Creating Theater Resources for the Classroom")

3.1. Costumes:

Indian performing arts are known for their vibrant and elaborate costumes that reflect the cultural and regional diversity of the country. For instance, Bharatanatyam dancers wear ornate silk sarees with intricate jewelry, while Kathakali performers don colorful face masks and elaborate costumes representing mythological characters.

3.2. Musical Instruments:

Traditional Indian musical instruments add depth and richness to performances. Examples include the sitar, tabla, veena, flute, and mridangam. These instruments are carefully crafted using materials such as wood, brass, and animal skins, and their sounds are integral to the compositions and rhythmic patterns.

3.3 Light:

Lights play a crucial role in theater at the elementary level, as they help set the mood, highlight key moments, and create a visually captivating experience for both performers and audiences. By manipulating light intensity, color, and direction, young theater enthusiasts can enhance the storytelling and engage the imagination of the viewers. For example, in a production of "Cinderella," the use of a spotlight can draw attention to the Fairy Godmother's entrance, creating a sense of magic and wonder. Similarly, different colored lights can be used to differentiate between various settings, like a warm yellow glow for a cozy home or a cool blue tone for an enchanted forest. These lighting choices help young performers and audiences alike connect with the emotions and atmosphere of the play. By introducing basic lighting techniques, such as spotlights, color gels, and dimming, elementary school productions can elevate their theatrical experience and provide a more immersive journey into the world of storytelling.

4. Allied Tools and Props:

4.1. Makeup and Face Paint:

In dance forms like Kathakali and Yakshagana, performers use intricate makeup and face paint to depict various characters. Each color and design holds symbolic meaning, aiding in character portrayal and enhancing visual storytelling.

4.2. Puppets and Masks:

Puppetry is a popular art form in India, with styles like Kathputli, Bommalattam, and Koodiyattam captivating audiences. Puppetry techniques and puppet-making materials vary across regions, but they generally involve the use of wood, cloth, and strings. Masks are also employed in dance dramas and folk performances to represent mythological characters or emotions.

4.3. Other Props:

At the elementary level, props play a crucial role in theater by enhancing storytelling, aiding character development, and fostering imaginative play. They provide visual and tactile elements that bring the script to life and engage young audiences. For example, in a production of "The Three Little Pigs," props such as straw, sticks, and bricks can be used to represent the houses, enabling the actors to interact with and demonstrate the strength of each material. Similarly, in a performance of "Alice in Wonderland," props like oversized teacups, a pocket watch, or a key can transport the audience into the whimsical world of the story. These props help create a multisensory experience, enabling young performers to embody their characters and immerse the audience in the theatrical world. 

5. Conclusion:

Performing arts provide an enriching experience for elementary stage students, fostering creativity, cultural awareness, and self-expression. In the Indian context, various traditional and contemporary art forms offer a plethora of methods, materials, allied tools, and props. By incorporating these elements into the curriculum, educators can create engaging and immersive learning environments that celebrate India's rich cultural heritage. Through the inclusion of examples and citations, this paper has demonstrated the significance and value of performing arts in elementary education in the Indian context.

References:

Sreenivasan, J. (2017). Teaching Dance in Schools: Indian Classical Dance Forms in Education. Journal of Emerging Dance Scholarship, 4(1), 32-39.

Chakrabarty, N. (2018). Teaching Theater to Children in India: Methods and Challenges. Theatre, Dance and Performance Training, 9(1), 108-124.

Rajaram, R. (2019). Indian Music Education and the Global Challenge: Historical Perspectives, Trends, and Issues. The Oxford Handbook of Music Education, 341-358.

Singh, P. (2020). Traditional Puppetry in India: An Overview. South Asian Research Journal of Arts, Language and Literature, 2(1), 27-34.

Ghosh, S. (2016). Dance Education in Indian Schools: Challenges and Opportunities. Dance Chronicle, 39(1), 91-101.

face painting - Bing images

Puppets and Masks in india - Bing images

EducationCloset.com - "The Importance of Lighting in the Elementary Theatre Classroom" and NYU Steinhardt - "Basic Stage Lighting for the Elementary School"

KidsPlayandCreate.com - "The Importance of Props in a Play" and DramaResource.com - "The Power of Props"