Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ivy Dey. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ivy, appreciate you joining us today. Can you take us back in time to the first dollar you earned as a creative – how did it happen? What’s the story?

When I was in college, I worked on a dance project for the 50th anniversary of a school. I choreographed three songs for different grades, and the students were high schoolers. I worked really hard on that project, and when the performance finally happened, it went so well! Everyone praised me and the effort I had put into the project. The principal of the school even came up to me and handed me money as a token of appreciation. At that moment, I felt like I had won the lottery! I didn’t have any plans for what to do with the money, but I was on top of the world—it was such an unforgettable feeling.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am Ivy. I started learning Bharatanatyam (Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest and most revered classical dance forms of India, known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling)
at the age of five, and it was my mother who took me to my dance school. Alongside my studies, I continued my dance training and eventually completed my Master’s in Bharatanatyam.

While I was in high school, I got my first student, who was in elementary school. I still remember choreographing a dance piece for her school event. Her parents praised me afterward, saying that everyone was talking about my choreography.

Apart from Bharatanatyam, I have also learned another dance form called Rabindra Nritya. This dance style is based on the songs of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, known as Rabindra Sangeet. I completed a diploma in Rabindra Nritya and had the opportunity to conduct my first dance workshop in Seattle at Northwest Folklife. The room was filled with people eager to learn about this dance form, and it was an amazing experience to teach a piece in Rabindra Nritya.

The journey of learning never ends—I am still learning every day. However, my formal training lasted 19 years.”**

I came to the USA in 2014 when my child was just seven months old, as part of my husband’s job relocation. During that time, I took a short break from dance because it was a new place, and I wasn’t sure if people here would appreciate this dance form.

One day, I attended an event where I saw a few kids performing Bharatanatyam. Watching them dance filled me with joy, and I excitedly shared my thoughts with my mother about how beautifully they performed.

The following year, I decided to perform at that same event, and to my delight, I received very positive feedback from the audience.

I always received immense support from my Parents & Sister —both before and after marriage. My husband and in-laws have been incredibly supportive, and this journey wouldn’t have been possible without my husband and my daughter. They are my biggest support system, always understanding my commitments.

With various dance projects and performances, I often miss important events—my child’s piano recitals, family gatherings, and celebrations. Yet, they never complain; instead, they stand by me, encouraging me every step of the way.

Ivy’s Nrityamanjari was born out of this support. ‘Manjari’ means buds, symbolizing the young learners who, with proper training, blossom into strong, graceful dancers. In 2016, with my husband’s help, I rented a studio and started my dance school with just four students, uncertain about how I would sustain it. I didn’t have enough funds to pay the studio rent, and my husband stepped in, covering it every month. He is my rock—the one who always believed in turning my passion into a profession. During difficult times, he guided me every step of the way.

My mother has been my greatest critic and mentor. After every performance, I send her a video, and she never fails to give me detailed feedback on the smallest aspects that need improvement. She truly loves my dance and has played a significant role in shaping me as an artist.

My daughter is another pillar of support in my life. She is always present at my events, helping me in every possible way.

And how could I forget the love and support of my friends and my students’ families? Their encouragement means the world to me, and I am deeply grateful for each one of them.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

The goal of my creative journey is to preserve, nurture, and share the rich traditions of Bharatanatyam and Rabindra Nritya, inspiring the next generation to embrace these art forms with passion and dedication. Through Ivy’s Nrityamanjari, I strive to create a space where students not only learn dance but also develop confidence, discipline, and a deep appreciation for cultural storytelling. Beyond teaching, my journey is about continuous learning, artistic exploration, and making dance a bridge that connects people, emotions, and traditions across
generations and cultures.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a Bharatanatyam teacher and artist is witnessing the transformative journey of students—from their first uncertain steps to becoming confident, expressive dancers. It is deeply fulfilling to pass down a centuries-old tradition, instilling not just technique but also discipline, grace, and a love for storytelling through movement. As an artist, the joy lies in the endless journey of learning, self-expression, and the ability to touch hearts through dance. The true reward is seeing the impact—whether in a student’s newfound confidence or in an audience moved by the beauty and depth of the art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ivys-nrityamanjari.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivysnrityamanjari1?igsh=dnFlNzIxbG1vaWFo&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18Wu7RxVoM/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@IvyNrityamanjari

Image Credits

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