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Smaran Dance Festival  - Participant FAQ

 

 

Everything you need to know before stepping onto the Smaran stage.

 

 

1. Who is eligible to apply?

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The SDF festival will feature Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Odissi, and Mohiniyattam, exclusively for Bay Area dancers only.

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  • Applications are open to experienced performing artists residing in the Bay Area.

  • Dancers who applied last year are welcome to reapply.

  • Young dancers aged 15 or older who have completed their Arangetram (solo debut) at least two years ago and have been continuously training under a Guru are eligible.

  • The festival is also open to adults who are new to the Bay Area, post-college students, or upcoming dancersseeking opportunities to present solo recitals.

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2. Is there an application fee?

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Yes. A non-refundable $15 application fee must be submitted with your application. This fee covers:

  • The time and expertise of the review panel in carefully evaluating each video.

  • Administrative costs involved in processing applications.

  • Ensuring a serious pool of applicants, which maintains fairness and commitment.

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3. What are the application requirements?

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  • Applicants must upload a recent solo performance video.

  • Video length must be minimum 6 minutes and maximum 15 minutes. Videos longer than 15 minutes will not be considered.

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4. What video format should I use?

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  • Only YouTube links will be accepted.

  • The video must be Public or Unlisted (Private videos will not be accepted).

  • Ensure the link works; broken or restricted links will lead to rejection.

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5. Are there specific performance guidelines?

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Yes.

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  • Only solo performance videos are eligible. Group performances will not be considered.

  • The Guru/teacher must not appear in the video.

  • The Guru’s name should not be mentioned in the video.

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6. How are applications reviewed?

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  • Applications are reviewed by an esteemed judging panel of senior artists.

  • The decisions of Smaran Performing Arts and the panel are final and non-negotiable.

  • No inquiries or appeals regarding the selection process will be entertained.

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7. When will audition results be announced?

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  • Results will be communicated exclusively via email by the announced deadline.

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8. Can selected participants be replaced?

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Yes. Selected dancers must submit all mandatory materials on time, including:

  • Studio-recorded music tracks only (MP3/WAV)

  • High-resolution photos

  • Promo videos (if requested)

  • Biographies and program notes

If these are not provided by the deadline, Smaran reserves the right to replace the dancer with the next eligible applicant recommended by the judging panel.

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9. How long is each performance slot?

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  • Selected dancers will be given a 20-minute solo slot, including stage entry/exit.

  • Only studio-recorded, high-quality audio will be accepted.

  • Live orchestras are not permitted.

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10. Why is there a ticket requirement?

 

We want to emphasize that Smaran does not profit from ticket sales. All proceeds go directly towards event expensesand to support our NGO partner. The requirement is in place to ensure:

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  • Festival Sustainability – covering theater, lighting, sound, crew, and publicity.

  • Equal Responsibility – every performer shares in supporting the platform.

  • Creating Awareness – dancers invite their circles, growing audiences for Indian classical dance.

  • Learning Artist Marketing – participants learn to promote their art and engage with community.

  • Charity & Giving Back – proceeds benefit our NGO partner, making the festival a community effort.

 Each selected participant must sell a minimum of 20 tickets. This is mandatory.

 

11. Will there be professional videography?

 

Yes.

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  • The festival will be recorded by a professional videographer.

  • A YouTube link will be provided to all participants at no cost.

  • Participants may also purchase the full video file if desired.

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12. Will there be professional photography?

 

Yes.

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  • Smaran will organize official photography throughout the festival.

  • Photos will be shared with participants after the event.

  • Personal photography during performances will not be permitted.

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13. Can I use my own videographer or photographer?

 

No. Personal recording and photography are strictly prohibited to maintain professionalism and copyright integrity.

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14. What about costumes and music?

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  • Participants must arrange their own costumes, jewelry, and music.

  • Only studio-recorded, high-quality audio will be accepted (no home or phone recordings).

  • Music tracks must be submitted by the deadline in MP3/WAV format.

 

15. What about costumes and makeup?

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  • Strictly traditional costumes appropriate to the dance form are mandatory.

  • Modernized or experimental costumes will not be encouraged.

  • Makeup must complement the traditional style and be stage-appropriate.

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16. What are the photo requirements for selected dancers?

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  • Participants must upload at least 4 high-quality photos (preferably studio-quality with good lighting).

  • Photos should be uploaded to a Google Drive folder, and the folder link shared with smarangroup@gmail.com.

  • Photos will be used only for festival marketing purposes.

  • Any unused photos will be deleted after the event.

 

17. What is the application deadline?

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  • Applications must be submitted by September 12th, 2025.

  • High-quality videos with neat Aharyam (costume/appearance), proper lighting, and a suitable background are highly recommended. Presentation quality strongly impacts how submissions are received by the judging panel.

 

18. Who organizes the festival?

 

The festival is organized by Smaran Performing Arts, a platform dedicated to showcasing Indian classical dance and supporting both established and emerging artists.

 

 

✨ Through Smaran, our aim is to create opportunities, nurture talent, and bring the community together to celebrate the beauty of Indian classical dance.

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