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Wednesday, April 8, 2009

CHAKRAVIEW


Pic: Kajal Bagwandeen; Varsha Sharma and Kymmona Maharajh. Pic by Val Adamson)

Danc piece inspired by everyday happenings that have affected the world deeply.

The introductory dance work from SiddhArts, in association with the Consulate General of India, is a compelling piece entitled ChakraView which will have one performance only in the Playhouse Opera on April 18.

Performed by a vibrant cast of local dancers, many of whom have had training in India, the piece is inspired by everyday happenings that have affected the world deeply. Exploring the theme through dance and movement, internationally-trained dance choreographer Varsha Sharma has married both contemporary and Indian classical dance creating different movement and styles that makes for a visually stunning dance work.

"ChakraView is a young and fresh approach to Indian classical dance. It works off the precepts of a classical medium in a contemporary manner,” says Varsha Sharma excitedly. “It offers us a view into the duality of the mind and works off a basic theory that, if our actions are dependent on our thoughts, then our experiences are a result of these thoughts.”

The production will be explored through an exciting music score, bringing together world music and combining them with live orchestration by talented and versatile local percussionist Vishen Kemraj on an array of instruments. It also features music from the award-winning soundtrack - Slumdog Millionaire, Rahul Sharma, Amaan and Ayaan Ali Khan and a host of other world renowned musicians.

"By changing the nature of our thoughts we can liberate ourselves from this illusionary ChakraView of the mind,” Sharma continues. “I believe this will be an utterly thought-provoking journey as pieces were inspired by the Mumbai attacks, 9/11 and, closer to home, the xenophobic attacks. The work looks toward religion as a unifying factor and embracing each other in all our diversity. It celebrates life and pays tribute to the human spirit.”

The dancers are Kajal Bagwandeen and Varsha Sharma (choreographer) as well as Kymmona Maharajh and dancers from the Nateshwar Dance Academy and others.

ChakraView takes place in the Playhouse Opera on April 18 – audiences are urged to book early as there is only one chance to catch this vibrant and entertaining dance work.

Tickets R50 and R75 booked through Computicket on www.computicket.co.za or phone 083 915 8000.