“Sheer technical mastery…incomparable richness and complexity.”San Francisco Chronicle
The celebrated Shantala Shivalingappa has entranced audiences with her compelling performances of Kuchipudi, an ancient classical dance tradition of South India that is unfamiliar to many Westerners. Kuchipudi, originally a sacred men's dance, is filled with intricate footwork and jumps, combining vibrancy with beauty and grace. Shantala studied with Vempati Chinna Satyam, Kuchipudi’s most influential exponent. She has also worked with such important contemporary figures as Peter Brook, Bejart, Pina Bausch and Bartabas. In this program, she presents the New York premiere of Swayambhu with accompaniment on vocals, flute and percussion.
Pre-concert lecture/demonstration:
"Illuminating Indian Dance" with Rajika Puri and guest dancers. One hour prior to each performance.
Programs made possible with support from the Anupam and Rajika Puri Foundation.
Co-presented by World Music Institute.
