About Institute of Classical and Modern Dance
The Institute of Classical & Modern Dance (ICMD) in Mumbai is a private dance academy founded in 2018 by acclaimed ballerina Pia Sutaria (icmdindia.com). Its mission from the start was “to fill the void of a vocational education for young and passionate dancers in India,” providing world-class training in ballet, contemporary, jazz and Indian classical dance forms (icmdindia.com) (www.artmumbai.com). Pia Sutaria – a soloist at Mumbai’s NCPA who’s been featured in Vogue and called “a pioneering ballerina in India” (icmdindia.com) – drives the vision of making professional dance education broad and accessible. In ICMD’s holistic curriculum, training includes classical ballet, Kathak and other Western and Indian styles (www.artmumbai.com), with graduates earning scholarships to top arts universities worldwide (Juilliard, RAD London, NYU Tisch, etc.) (www.artmumbai.com). Although still a young school, ICMD has quickly become notable in the Mumbai arts scene for this rigorous, international-standard approach and its founder’s global ballet connections.
The ICMD studios are located in the Khar West neighborhood (Mumbai) (icmdindia.com). Unlike a large auditorium, the institute operates with multiple dance studios rather than fixed seating. Each studio features sprung/Marley flooring, wall-to-wall mirrors and sound systems – the sort of spaces used for rehearsals and classes. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as creative and disciplined: students in uniform (or studio wear) practicing under professional teachers. The setting is modern but purpose-built for dance, not ornate or historic – it’s the training and performances that give the place its character. Because it is primarily an education center (not a public theater), facilities are geared to dancers: barre rails, technical equipment, and a small reception rather than audience lounges. This focus on high-quality training facilities (with a view toward stage performance) is exactly what makes ICMD stand out among Mumbai venues for dance education.
Events and Programming
ICMD’s programming spans regular classes, workshops, masterclasses and dance showcases. Students train year-round in the full curriculum (one head echoing “contemporary, ballet, tap, jazz, and Indian forms”) with exams and competitions integrated. In recent years, ICMD also launched the Indian Youth Dance Company to mount major productions. For example, in 2024 this company made its debut with a mixed repertory bill on the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre stage – the students later performed in London at venues like The Place and the Royal Academy of Dance headquarters (icmdindia.com). That highlight year also saw ICMD present “Origins,” a gala dance concert for the Aditya Birla Centre for Performing Arts written and curated by Pia Sutaria (icmdindia.com). ICMD dancers took well-known works to events: e.g. they danced the ballet *Coppelia* on the NMACC’s Main Stage (www.artmumbai.com) and collaborated at Art Mumbai 2024 in “An Evening of Dance” featuring choreography by Neeraj Lohani, Jainil Mehta and others (www.artmumbai.com). In short, ICMD students aren’t limited to the studio – they appear at fashion and arts events (India Couture Week, brand launches, etc.) and national stages as showcases of the school’s standards.
Alongside these flagship productions, the institute runs dozens of smaller performances and participations. Every term includes student recitals and assessments in which choreography varies from classical ballet pieces to contemporary fusion routines. ICMD hosts international guest teachers regularly: for instance, a masterclass with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater company and an intensive led by Boston Conservatory instructors took place recently (icmdindia.com). The school also offers community workshops and open classes; notably, they advertise weekly open-level sessions (Contemporary dance on Sundays, Ballet on Wednesday evenings, led by Manish Chauhan) for dancers age 10 and up (icmdindia.com). These public masterclasses and intensives complement the core training and invite non-enrolled dancers to experience ICMD’s teaching style. This mix of in-house productions, high-profile collaborations and ongoing classes means there is almost always something happening at ICMD, whether or not it’s a public event.
Tickets and Booking
ICMD functions primarily as a dance training center, so it does not have a public ticketing office like a theater. Enrollment works by contacting the institute directly. Prospective students and community dancers register for classes or programs through ICMD’s own admissions line or online forms (icmdindia.com). For performance events that are open to audiences (such as end-of-year shows or liaison events at venues like the NCPA or NMACC), tickets are usually sold by the hosting organization or event partner, not by ICMD itself. In practice this means if ICMD students are appearing in a public concert, advance ticket info and pricing come from that venue’s box office or website. For the latest schedules and entry details, visitors should watch ICMD’s official announcements. In general, if you want to see an ICMD performance or attend a masterclass, check the official ICMD site or social updates to find ticketing instructions and price ranges in advance.
Seating and Layout
Since ICMD is built around teaching studios rather than an auditorium, it has no formal continuous seating section. Dances classes take place on open studio floors, and audience seating (e.g. for an invited showcase) is arranged ad hoc in the largest studio or rehearsal space. Typically this might involve folding chairs placed along the sides of a studio, or benches brought in. There are no fixed balcony levels or numbered rows – it’s intimate and flexible. Because of this, many viewers stand or sit on the floor near the mirrors for an up-close view during student recitals. Acoustically, the studios are engineered for music playback (via wall-mounted speakers) but not for amplified shows. Lighting is bright and even for practice; when performances are improvised in-studio, they rely on simple spotlights a technician can set up. In sum, best “seats” are usually mid-studio where you can see all dancers; there’s no VIP box or special front-row section. Avoid standing behind sound equipment or audio cables in a class space, since the studio floors are the focus.
Getting There and Parking
ICMD’s address is listed simply as Khar (West) in Mumbai (icmdindia.com). The neighborhood is on the city’s western line of suburbs, just south of the Versova junction. The nearest suburban train stop is Khar Road station (Western Railway): take the station exit toward Linking Road and walk south (about 10–15 minutes on foot) or catch a local rickshaw for a one-ride fare. Alternatively, Bandra (W) station is one stop south. Mumbai Metro Line 1 (Versova–Ghatkopar) has stations at Versova and DN Nagar a few kilometers away; from there a short taxi/auto journey reaches ICMD. Several BEST bus routes run on Linking and SV Road nearby (connecting Santacruz, Andheri, Bandra and beyond), so those make it accessible by bus as well. Rideshare services (Uber, Ola) and auto-rickshaws will drop passengers on Linking Road or 13th/14th Road; use the main road entrance marked by the ICMD sign for drop-off.
Parking around Khar West can be challenging. There is no official ICMD parking lot, and street parking fills up quickly. Visitors often use small paid parking lots or the few public car parks on nearby Linking Road and its cross-streets (rates vary, typically a modest hourly charge). If you must drive, arrive well before your event to scout a spot, or consider parking a block away and walking. In evening performances, guards may direct parking on the side streets. Out-of-towners frequently rely on taxis/ride-hailing instead of self-parking. Remember the area’s one-way circuits and no-parking zones; double parking is common but avoid obstructing traffic. Overall, plan on limited parking availability and give yourself extra time to reach ICMD.
Inside the Venue
When entering ICMD for a class or event, expect a professional studio environment. At the reception you’ll usually find administrative staff who sign you in and answer questions; the same entrance is used for all visitors. Security is minimal (no metal detectors); large items or musical instruments are seldom brought in. For everyday visits, normally you’ll be asked to turn off mobile phones or set them to silent, both to respect the dancers and to maintain focus. Photography is generally not allowed behind the scenes – if photography is permitted during a performance, the announcement will be made beforehand (usually only for final recitals and often with photographers on-site already). The vibe inside is studious and energetic: you’ll hear music pumping from speakers, dancers working on technique, and teachers giving feedback. If arriving for a class, it’s courteous to sign-in quietly (there’s usually a log or register sheet). The staff can guide you to warm-up or waiting areas (usually benches or a small lobby), but most visitors simply stay in the practice room once it’s open.
Refreshments and food are not sold onsite, so plan ahead: there are water fountains or cooler for personal water bottles, but no cafeteria. Restrooms (toilets and small changing spaces) are available within the building. You’ll find them marked – these are clean but primarily functional since the space is for dance practice. There is no coat check or storage (you should store belongings under ballet barres or on dedicated cubby shelves). Bring only what you need for class or rehearsal. ICMD does not have its own merchandise store or snack kiosks; for that, neighboring stores or cafés on Linking Road handle snacks. Wi-Fi may not be provided to casual visitors, so prepare for limited digital access (though cell reception is usually good). Overall the atmosphere is focused and inclusive – visitors often say the studio feels “friendly yet disciplined,” reflecting ICMD’s goal of a supportive learning environment.
Nearby Amenities
The neighborhood around ICMD is lively. Linking Road (just a block west) is a major shopping and dining strip – you’ll find everything from street food carts to casual cafes. Popular spots include local bakeries, juice bars and Indian fast-food stalls, as well as chain coffee shops and bakeries for a quick bite. A short rickshaw ride or 10-minute walk will take you to “Chappan Dukan” on Pali Hill, a famous stretch of about 56 eateries (ideal for an inexpensive dinner before or after an evening class or show). If you prefer full-service restaurants, Bandra West is nearby with a huge range of cuisines (from trendy lounges to Punjabi dhabas). Small supermarkets and convenience kiosks are within walking distance for grabbing bottled water or snacks.
For out-of-town guests, Khar West has a few hotels and guesthouses. The Orchid by the Lalit (Bandra East, 3km away) and Seven Seas Hotel (Khar) are in the general vicinity. Many performers and visitors simply stay in Bandra or Andheri to access more upscale hotels (Taj Lands End, JW Marriott, Novotel, etc.) and commute 10–15 minutes. Airport access is decent – the Mumbai international airport (Chhatrapati Shivaji) is roughly 7km south, reachable via taxi in 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.
It is wise to arrive early for your class or show. Give yourself extra time for Mumbai traffic and to find a parking spot. Tourist attractions are sparse in Khar itself, but if you have free time nearby you could explore the local shops, or plan dinner in nearby neighborhoods. Public transit stops close by (a bus stop on Linking Road, Khar Road station at the corner), so timing is easier if you use the train schedules. Late-night rideshare or cab options are reliable in Bandra/Khar, but keep safety in mind after dark. In summary: around ICMD you’ll find all the usual urban conveniences – food, hotels, shops – but remember this is primarily a residential and school area, so plan accordingly (emergency clinics and 24x7 pharmacies do exist nearby, just not flashy tourist attractions).
What Makes This Venue Special
ICMD is unique in Mumbai because it brings professional-level dance training together with a mission of accessibility. Unlike hobby classes, ICMD is designed to launch careers. Culturally, it stands out for blending Western and Indian traditions – a student might study a Kathak or Bharatnatyam piece one day and classical ballet the next. This reflects India’s evolving performing arts scene and Pia Sutaria’s vision to unlock global opportunities. Architecturally the space itself isn’t landmark, but it’s the hub for some very special moments: Delhi fashion shows, TV campaigns and international tours all bear the ICMD stamp. In fact, the institute even choreographed parts of major fashion events (for designers like Falguni & Shane Peacock) and luxury launches (Coach at Jio World Centre) (www.artmumbai.com). Many local dancers feel inspired simply by training under Puja chapters. In short, ICMD matters not because of an old building or a famous stage, but because it has become a launching pad for talent and a bridge between India’s dance heritage and the world stage. Audiences and alumni remember ICMD for breath-taking premieres (like its NYC-stage collaborations) and its founder’s mantra of “dance for everyone” – a rare mix in the Mumbai scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to wear appropriate dance attire as needed (e.g. leotard and tights for ballet, or practice clothes for contemporary). If you’re there for a workshop or class, bring a water bottle, towel and any required shoes (ballet slippers, jazz shoes, yoga socks). Do not wear street shoes on the dance floor – students will put on soft-soled dance shoes or practice barefoot for certain classes. Long hair should be tied back; minimal jewelry is recommended for safety. Visitors often suggest arriving 10–15 minutes early to get settled – whether it’s a class or a friendly open viewing – so you can sign in and warm up if needed.
Age restrictions vary by program. Open classes and adult courses generally require participants to be roughly age 10 and up (icmdindia.com). However, ICMD also runs a younger children’s division under Alicia Misquitta (icmdindia.com), so children as young as 4 or 5 may take introductory courses. Check in advance: if you’re under 10, ask about the kids’ program. Performances are inclusive, but content is not inappropriate for any age – it’s just dance, not movies or theater. For student recitals, families often bring siblings along (with permission). Note that ICMD classes are coed, so boys and girls train together at higher levels.
ICMD maintains a respectful, no-nonsense studio etiquette. Photographing classes or rehearsals is not allowed unless explicitly cleared by staff. If you are attending a public show, you can usually take snapshots without flash or audio recordings during breaks or after the event. Smoking and outside alcohol are strictly forbidden inside the building (and actually most places in Mumbai). There isn’t a strict dress code for audience members – smart casual attire is fine for performances – but if you’re enrolled as a student, you’ll receive uniform guidelines (often a plain leotard and tights or ICMD-branded shirt during practice). Most importantly: follow staff instructions, don't step onto the floor without permission, and enjoy the professional yet warm vibe. Guests often say the nicest tip is simply to relax and watch the dancers – you’ll feel the energy once the music starts!
