Our Work
We have classical dance classes for all ages. We also engage with the community in Performaces, workshops, Dance & Well Being and Creative Projects
Performances: Manushi Dance presents vibrant Kathak and folk dance works at South Asian melas, community festivals, and arts events.
Workshops: Tailored for schools, universities, and cultural groups, introducing participants to rhythm, movement, and storytelling through dance.
Dance & Wellbeing: Specially designed projects for older people, including those with health conditions, to enhance physical mobility, memory, and joy. .
Creative Projects: Cross-generational programmes bringing together dancers, musicians, and communities to share and perform. .
Regular Classes & Master classes: Weekly Kathak dance classes and specialist masterclasses open to all age groups, held at 38 Latimer Drive, Bramcote, Nottingham, England, NG9 3HS.
Dance & Wellbeing
This is one of the unique strengths of Manushi Dance. Vina has pioneered projects with: • Age UK groups • Asian elders and faith-based communities • Care homes and day centres • Hospices with terminally ill patients Each session is built around accessibility, storytelling, music, and gentle movement. Even when mobility is limited, participants often “dance inside”, experiencing joy, connectedness, and self-expression. Feedback consistently highlights improved confidence, wellbeing, and a renewed sense of community.
Work with Older People
For nearly two decades, Vina has specialised in projects that bring the joy of dance to older communities. From Age UK sessions to work in hospices and with the Asian Elders group, she has seen firsthand how dance enriches wellbeing, social connection, and self-expression. Her sessions often include gentle movement, storytelling through gesture (mudras), and music, adapted for participants with diverse physical abilities. Whether standing, seated, or simply “dancing inside,” participants experience the therapeutic and joyful power of South Asian dance. This strand of her work was recognised and supported by The Baring Foundation and The Big Lottery Fund.
Past Work & Projects
Over the last three decades, Manushi Dance has delivered a rich variety of projects that have combined artistic excellence with community engagement. From small-scale cultural workshops to large-scale participatory events, Vina Ladwa and her company have consistently demonstrated how dance can be a bridge between cultures, generations, and abilities. Some highlights include:
2003 – Sky Mirror
A celebratory project inspired by Anish Kapoor’s iconic sculpture outside Nottingham Playhouse. This brought together local communities to respond creatively through dance and art to a landmark piece of public art.
2003 – Parampara
A professional development initiative focusing on the classical tradition of Kathak. The project supported training and choreography, strengthening Manushi’s artistic foundation while allowing Vina to expand her own creative practice.
2010 – Taj Mahal
A heritage-inspired project that introduced communities and schools to the stories, architecture, and cultural symbolism of one of the world’s most famous monuments. Using dance, storytelling, and visual arts, this project engaged audiences of all ages.
2012 – Women of the World Festival
As part of this global festival celebrating women’s creativity, Manushi Dance delivered performances and workshops highlighting South Asian dance traditions. The project gave a platform to women’s voices through the medium of Kathak and folk dance, connecting themes of identity, resilience, and cultural pride.
2014 – Creative Healthy Movement with Older People
A landmark initiative highlighting the potential of South Asian dance to enhance wellbeing in later life. Bringing together dancers, musicians, older participants, and younger community members, the project culminated in a public performance at the New Art Exchange, Nottingham. It was pivotal in shaping Manushi’s long-term commitment to working with older people and promoting intergenerational connections through dance. Through these and many other initiatives, Manushi Dance has demonstrated a unique ability to adapt Indian dance traditions to diverse contexts, from schools and community centres to professional theatres and festivals. Each project reflects the company’s mission: to make South Asian dance relevant, inclusive, and meaningful for everyone.