Noorani Dance is founded and directed by Kathak artist Farah Yasmeen Shaikh, who trained for two decades with the late Kathak maestro Pandit Chitresh Das. Kathak is a classical dance form from North India, traditionally believed to have originated from the travelling bards of North India referred as Kathakars or storytellers. Shaikh continues to uphold much of Pandit Das' teaching style and philosophy, along with her own unique approach steeped in both tradition and innovation.

“Noorani” means bright or luminous, with a dual meaning of enlightenment. With Kathak as the medium, Noorani Dance is committed to enlightening minds and hearts through the arts. During this residency, Shaikh and selected musicians and collaborating artists will visit classes, conduct workshops, and offer a Midday Muse to learn about the genre in more depth. The residency will culminate in the presentation of the full-length dance-drama The Forgotten Empress, with live music. (See that event)