What is a Rangapravesam?

A rangapravesam, meaning "ascending to the stage" is a full-length dance performance. Usually, it is solo, but it can also be performed as a duet. It is similar to a graduation, as this is the transition between a student to a full dancer. About 3 to 4 hours, it encompasses expression using facial and hand gestures, rhythmic movements, and describing a story.

One of the dances usually in a rangapravesam is called a Tarangam, which is the longest dance and consists of a drama segment and a segment where the dancer has to balance on a brass plate. The last dance is usually the Thillana, which is consisted mainly of rhythmic movements and fast paced dances.