Sure, you’ve seen a musical on Broadway, and you just saw ballerinas perform in the Nutcracker. But have you seen an authentic Bollywood performance?

Luckily enough in recent years, Bollywood has been made much more accessible to us in the US. We can watch Bollywood films, research Bollywood dance performances on Youtube, and even take a Bollywood class at a studio. Still, live Bollywood performances may seem few and far between.

Whether you are attending a Bollywood performance or hosting Bollywood dancers at your next event, keep reading to learn the history of Bollywood dance, and what to expect at a live Bollywood performance.

What is Bollywood Dance?

Bollywood dance comes from the Indian dance styles seen in Bollywood movies. In fact, the term Bollywood comes from mashing together Bombay (the film capital of India, now known as Mumbai) and Hollywood.

While classic Indian dance styles date back over 500 years, Bollywood style dance started at the boom of the Bollywood film industry in the 20th century.

The Bollywood film genre is the Hindi-language sector of the Indian film industry. These films are extravagant, often featuring grand sets, large ensembles, and flashy costumes. More often than not, Bollywood films feature at least one big musical number. This is where Bollywood dance comes in.

Bollywood dance is an umbrella term for many classic Indian dance styles, including Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Garba, Bhangra, Lavni, and Belly-dance. Modern Bollywood performances, included by western-culture styles, also blend in Hip-hop, Contemporary, and Jazz dance styles.

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Expect to See Colorful Costumes

Traditional Bollywood dancers wear sarees or choli tops with lehenga or pavada skirts. Of course, more modern troupes may wear costumes inspired by traditional Indian garments, but modernized to keep up with current trends.

Often, these costumes come in vibrant colors that especially pop on camera. Many are decorated in gold accents or embellished with sequins so that the dancers shimmer under the lights.

While a majority of the time Bollywood dancers dress in bright colors, more muted colors can also work for costumes to fit with a theme.

Exciting Music Fuels the Performance

In Bollywood dance performances, music is a driving force of excitement. Most Bollywood music tracks feature instruments like the sitar, tabla, violin, flute, and synthesizer. In addition, many Bollywood songs feature vocalists, singing Hindustani lyrics.

A recognizable pattern in Bollywood music is the fast pace of the songs. This quick tempo keeps the dancers energized throughout the piece. You might find yourself invigorated after watching the dancers perform!

A Fun Time Your Guests Won’t Forget

Bollywood performances are unique event entertainment. Some performances can be interactive; guests can learn simple Bollywood moves and then join in on the dance floor.

For shy guests, they’ll have an amazing time just watching the Bollywood performers do their act!

Book a Bollywood Performance Today

Ready to have a ball at your next event? Then book our Bollywood performance today. Our Bollywood performers can put on the perfect dance number for your wedding. You’ll feel like you’re in a classic Bollywood movie!