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Margam Dance Company

Harnessing the Transformative Power of Indian Classical Dance

Est. 2014 -- STL

Est. 2006 -- Seattle (Abhinay School of Dance)

Journey

A premier Bharatanatyam school & production company with 20 years of experience & acclaim, run by mother-daughter duo Guru Lakshmi Iyer & Megha Sanjay

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Event Calendar

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December 2025

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All Videos

Snippet from the Simhendramadhyamam Thillana

Choreography: Guru Lakshmi Iyer

#StLouisArts #DanceCommunity #SouthAsianArts #MargamDanceCompany #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #stldancers

Snippet from the Simhendramadhyamam Thillana

Choreography: Guru Lakshmi Iyer

#StLouisArts #DanceCommunity #SouthAsianArts #MargamDanceCompany #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #stldancers

Enrollment for January 2026 is officially open!
We welcome dancers of all ages, backgrounds, and training levels — from absolute beginners to those ready for advanced work or looking to grow into company-style training. Our classes are designed to build strong technique, artistic clarity, and a real sense of community for dancers in St. Louis and beyond.
For out-of-state (intermediate and above) students, we’re opening a limited number of Zoom spots as well.
If you’re looking for a place to train, belong, and grow… you’re invited.

#MargamDanceCompany #DanceEnrollment #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #StLouisArts #DanceCommunity #SouthAsianArts #JoinTheJourney #AdvancedTraining #ZoomDanceClasses #BharatanatyamClass #bharatanatyamclasses #stldancers #stldancecompany #stlindian

@hindutempleofstl @muruganstl @missouriganeshatemple @stlouisarts @stlitspouses @balviharstl @st.louis_kwality

Enrollment for January 2026 is officially open!
We welcome dancers of all ages, backgrounds, and training levels — from absolute beginners to those ready for advanced work or looking to grow into company-style training. Our classes are designed to build strong technique, artistic clarity, and a real sense of community for dancers in St. Louis and beyond.
For out-of-state (intermediate and above) students, we’re opening a limited number of Zoom spots as well.
If you’re looking for a place to train, belong, and grow… you’re invited.

#MargamDanceCompany #DanceEnrollment #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #StLouisArts #DanceCommunity #SouthAsianArts #JoinTheJourney #AdvancedTraining #ZoomDanceClasses #BharatanatyamClass #bharatanatyamclasses #stldancers #stldancecompany #stlindian

@hindutempleofstl @muruganstl @missouriganeshatemple @stlouisarts @stlitspouses @balviharstl @st.louis_kwality

A snippet from the Shadakshara Kouthuvam by our student Anisha.

A snippet from the Shadakshara Kouthuvam by our student Anisha.

A small slice of the many stories we’ve told on stage over the years.

Kshetram.

#MargamDanceCompany #STLArts #ArtInMotion #DanceStorytelling #seattlebharatanatyam #ClassicalDance #SouthAsianArts #seattle #StlIndian

A small slice of the many stories we’ve told on stage over the years.

Kshetram.

#MargamDanceCompany #STLArts #ArtInMotion #DanceStorytelling #seattlebharatanatyam #ClassicalDance #SouthAsianArts #seattle #StlIndian

A first-of-its-kind thematic production that brought together five senior artists across Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, and Kuchipudi — each interpreting the spirit of five sacred kshetrams through their own tradition.
The production celebrated diversity within classical form, collaboration among teachers, and the unity of spiritual expression through dance.
Audiences and peers alike praised Kshetram for its originality, artistic integrity, and the rare dialogue it created between styles.

Always wonderful collaborating with our dear friends:
@mohiniperformingarts @kalaalayaschoolofdancewa

#StlIndian #SouthAsianArts #MargamDanceCompany #IndianClassicalDance #Bharatanatyam #ClassicalDance #STLArts #ArtInMotion #DanceStorytelling #seattlebharatanatyam #ThenAndNow #seattle

A first-of-its-kind thematic production that brought together five senior artists across Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, and Kuchipudi — each interpreting the spirit of five sacred kshetrams through their own tradition.
The production celebrated diversity within classical form, collaboration among teachers, and the unity of spiritual expression through dance.
Audiences and peers alike praised Kshetram for its originality, artistic integrity, and the rare dialogue it created between styles.

Always wonderful collaborating with our dear friends:
@mohiniperformingarts @kalaalayaschoolofdancewa

#StlIndian #SouthAsianArts #MargamDanceCompany #IndianClassicalDance #Bharatanatyam #ClassicalDance #STLArts #ArtInMotion #DanceStorytelling #seattlebharatanatyam #ThenAndNow #seattle

Our programming bridges traditional and contemporary spaces — from temple stages and cultural centers to universities and public festivals — engaging audiences from all walks of life.

We also believe dance is for everyone. Our students span a wide range of ages and backgrounds, and our classes, workshops, and creative programs invite learners to explore Bharatanatyam not just as movement, but as a language of storytelling, culture, and contemporary spaces.

#STLArts #DanceStorytelling #ClassicalDance #MargamDanceCompany #StlIndian #SouthAsianArts #IndianClassicalDance #Bharatanatyam #DanceCommunity #stldancers #DanceEnrollment #bharatanatyamclasses

Our programming bridges traditional and contemporary spaces — from temple stages and cultural centers to universities and public festivals — engaging audiences from all walks of life.

We also believe dance is for everyone. Our students span a wide range of ages and backgrounds, and our classes, workshops, and creative programs invite learners to explore Bharatanatyam not just as movement, but as a language of storytelling, culture, and contemporary spaces.

#STLArts #DanceStorytelling #ClassicalDance #MargamDanceCompany #StlIndian #SouthAsianArts #IndianClassicalDance #Bharatanatyam #DanceCommunity #stldancers #DanceEnrollment #bharatanatyamclasses

@dancing._.megha Megha just wrapped up a semester as a Supplemental Instructor for pre-professional students at @cocastl , and it’s been such a rewarding experience. Teaching abhinaya, nritta, and the foundations of Bharatanatyam — while also comparing movement styles and technique across traditions — opened up some genuinely exciting conversations in the studio.
Grateful for the curiosity, the hard work, and the chance to share this art with a new community of dancers.

#MargamDanceCompany #COCAStLouis #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #DanceEducation #Abhinaya #Nritta #SouthAsianArts #STLArts #TeachingDance

@dancing._.megha Megha just wrapped up a semester as a Supplemental Instructor for pre-professional students at @cocastl , and it’s been such a rewarding experience. Teaching abhinaya, nritta, and the foundations of Bharatanatyam — while also comparing movement styles and technique across traditions — opened up some genuinely exciting conversations in the studio.
Grateful for the curiosity, the hard work, and the chance to share this art with a new community of dancers.

#MargamDanceCompany #COCAStLouis #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #DanceEducation #Abhinaya #Nritta #SouthAsianArts #STLArts #TeachingDance

Students from the Abhinay School of Dance taking part in the festival's preliminary rounds -- a throwback to our time in Seattle.

Students from the Abhinay School of Dance taking part in the festival's preliminary rounds -- a throwback to our time in Seattle.

In 2010, Lakshmi launched Seattle’s Natya Festival, a first-of-its-kind platform that welcomed dancers across categories—kids, advanced, and senior. Preliminary rounds were evaluated by teachers from across the dance community, and the finals were adjudicated by Rama Vaidyanathan. The festival’s transparent, community-centered format set a benchmark in Washington and inspired similar initiatives across the country.

#IndianClassicalDance #DanceEducation #MargamDanceCompany #Bharatanatyam #seattlebharatanatyam #seattle #STLArts #DanceStorytelling #ClassicalDance #StlIndian #SouthAsianArts #ThenAndNow #DanceCommunity #stldancers

In 2010, Lakshmi launched Seattle’s Natya Festival, a first-of-its-kind platform that welcomed dancers across categories—kids, advanced, and senior. Preliminary rounds were evaluated by teachers from across the dance community, and the finals were adjudicated by Rama Vaidyanathan. The festival’s transparent, community-centered format set a benchmark in Washington and inspired similar initiatives across the country.

#IndianClassicalDance #DanceEducation #MargamDanceCompany #Bharatanatyam #seattlebharatanatyam #seattle #STLArts #DanceStorytelling #ClassicalDance #StlIndian #SouthAsianArts #ThenAndNow #DanceCommunity #stldancers

In 2010, Lakshmi launched Seattle’s Natya Festival, a first-of-its-kind platform that welcomed dancers across categories—kids, advanced, and senior. Preliminary rounds were evaluated by teachers from across the dance community, and the finals were adjudicated by Rama Vaidyanathan. The festival’s transparent, community-centered format set a benchmark in Washington and inspired similar initiatives across the country.

#IndianClassicalDance #DanceEducation #MargamDanceCompany #Bharatanatyam #seattlebharatanatyam #seattle #STLArts #DanceStorytelling #ClassicalDance #StlIndian #SouthAsianArts #ThenAndNow #DanceCommunity #stldancers

In 2010, Lakshmi launched Seattle’s Natya Festival, a first-of-its-kind platform that welcomed dancers across categories—kids, advanced, and senior. Preliminary rounds were evaluated by teachers from across the dance community, and the finals were adjudicated by Rama Vaidyanathan. The festival’s transparent, community-centered format set a benchmark in Washington and inspired similar initiatives across the country.

#IndianClassicalDance #DanceEducation #MargamDanceCompany #Bharatanatyam #seattlebharatanatyam #seattle #STLArts #DanceStorytelling #ClassicalDance #StlIndian #SouthAsianArts #ThenAndNow #DanceCommunity #stldancers

A moment from the archives — grateful for every chance to create and share.

A moment from the archives — grateful for every chance to create and share.

Sister Schools: Margam & KalaAlaya

Two schools, one shared legacy.
What began as Abhinay School of Dance in 2006 has grown into two parallel homes for training and performance. In Seattle, the journey continues as KalaAlaya @kalaalayaschoolofdancewa , led by Preetha. In St. Louis, Lakshmi built KalaArangam, an umbrella for many artistic ventures — and within it, Margam emerged as the dedicated dance company and school.

KalaAlaya and KalaArangam were shaped as mirror names, reflecting their shared roots. Today, Margam and KalaAlaya carry that legacy forward in their own distinct ways, connected by history, artistry, and a commitment to meaningful training.

#MargamDanceCompany #KalaAlaya #DanceLineage #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #SouthAsianArts #STLArts #SeattleArts #DanceCommunity #SharedLegacy

Sister Schools: Margam & KalaAlaya

Two schools, one shared legacy.
What began as Abhinay School of Dance in 2006 has grown into two parallel homes for training and performance. In Seattle, the journey continues as KalaAlaya @kalaalayaschoolofdancewa , led by Preetha. In St. Louis, Lakshmi built KalaArangam, an umbrella for many artistic ventures — and within it, Margam emerged as the dedicated dance company and school.

KalaAlaya and KalaArangam were shaped as mirror names, reflecting their shared roots. Today, Margam and KalaAlaya carry that legacy forward in their own distinct ways, connected by history, artistry, and a commitment to meaningful training.

#MargamDanceCompany #KalaAlaya #DanceLineage #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #SouthAsianArts #STLArts #SeattleArts #DanceCommunity #SharedLegacy

Idadhu Padam Thooki Snippet

#STLArts #IndianClassicalDance #MargamDanceCompany #SouthAsianArts #Bharatanatyam #ArtInMotion #ClassicalDance #StLouisArts #StlIndian

Idadhu Padam Thooki Snippet

#STLArts #IndianClassicalDance #MargamDanceCompany #SouthAsianArts #Bharatanatyam #ArtInMotion #ClassicalDance #StLouisArts #StlIndian

Every performance leaves its own imprint. Another one for the memories.

#MargamDanceCompany #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #STLArts #SouthAsianArts #DanceStorytelling #ClassicalDance #Nritya #ArtInMotion

Every performance leaves its own imprint. Another one for the memories.

#MargamDanceCompany #Bharatanatyam #IndianClassicalDance #STLArts #SouthAsianArts #DanceStorytelling #ClassicalDance #Nritya #ArtInMotion

A full Bharatanatyam margam inspired by the life and legends of Lord Muruga, this production traced his journey from divine birth to marriages (with a hint of sarcasm). The performance wove together classical and regional traditions, culminating in a vibrant folk “Kavadi” that celebrated devotion and energy. Through layered choreography and evocative music, the work highlighted Muruga’s valor, compassion, and enduring cultural resonance.

@muruganstl

#DanceCommunity #Bharatanatyam #StLouisArts #stldancers #MargamDanceCompany #IndianClassicalDance #SouthAsianArts #StlIndian #STLArts

A full Bharatanatyam margam inspired by the life and legends of Lord Muruga, this production traced his journey from divine birth to marriages (with a hint of sarcasm). The performance wove together classical and regional traditions, culminating in a vibrant folk “Kavadi” that celebrated devotion and energy. Through layered choreography and evocative music, the work highlighted Muruga’s valor, compassion, and enduring cultural resonance.

@muruganstl

#DanceCommunity #Bharatanatyam #StLouisArts #stldancers #MargamDanceCompany #IndianClassicalDance #SouthAsianArts #StlIndian #STLArts

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