While dance is the center of attraction for this show, music plays just as important a role. And so while there are solo and group dance performances of different genres, there are also some vocal and instrumental performances by the participants. People belonging to all ages can participate in the Chennai Dance Festival. This event is interesting because they include performances that are regional. This means that songs and dances are performed in Telegu, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada. And there are many classical Indian instruments that are also used for the show. They include the veena, the gootttuvadyam, the thavil and many others. People who have learnt Carnatic and Hindustani classical music are at a great advantage because the organizers often look for those that are trained in classical music, since the forum that is provided is of a high standard. One of the reasons why this festival is celebrated is in order to remember the great regional musicians who had lived in the past and also as a way to keep their tradition and their culture intact, in terms of music at least.
The festival was started way back in 1927 and was then known as the Margazhi festival. It used to be held at the different art centers in the city of Chennai. It was only later that people came up with the idea of having it in one location for convenience sake. However, occasionally, when there are clashes in timings of two or more performers, then the events are held in more than one location. The chief guests during the show are some of the renowned people in the country in music, and some of them have been Shankar Mahadev, A.R. Rahman and the like. And so, if you want something incredible to witness on cold winter nights, then head to Chennai for a grand dance and music experience.