Prices: FREE
Taking place in our courtyard
Friday 21 Oct 2022
Tags: Dance
SEVENS, a new triple bill of Bharatanatyam and Kathak dance with live music from one of the UK’s leading choreographers of classical Indian dance.
Conceptualised and choreographed by award-winning Bharatanatyam dancer and choreographer Nina Rajarani MBE, with an original music score by composers Y Yadavan and Shammi Pithia.
Through the medium of Bharatanatyam and Kathak, and originally composed live music, ‘SEVENS’ will explore the sacred, and sometimes sinful, significance of the number seven. From playful and energetic, to soulful and contemplative, the show will take audiences on an emotion-filled and entertaining journey.
Seven Snags: A flirtatious courtship, the choreographic equivalent of an obstacle race, this fast-paced ensemble is rhythmic, full of exciting dynamics and laced with challenging cross-rhythms. Seven Steps: A duet by Nina Rajarani MBE and vocalist/composer Y Yadavan, based on ‘saptapadi’ (seven steps) – the most important rite of a Hindu marriage ceremony. With each step, the couple take a vow that is beautiful, simple and timeless. Seven Sins: The age-old concept of rights and wrongs, performed by the full ensemble of seven dancers and musicians. This thought-provoking, nuanced piece questions the very perception, and challenges what have become social norms.
“Rajarani’s take on classical Indian dance is invigorating.” - The Sunday Times
“The highlight was the deeply moving vocal, composed and sung faultlessly by Y Yadavan” - The Independent
"I really enjoyed watching SEVENS. The live music, the movement, the storytelling, everything came together in a way that truly represented the best of Indian classical art, breaking stereotypes around the general expectations of an Indian classical performance along the way." - Bhuvan A Sharma, Executive Director, Yorkshire Dance, York
"SEVENS was a beautiful performance and as a newcomer to Indian classical dance I found it really engaging and accessible. Having live music alongside the dance made it particularly special." - Alex Corwin, Marketing and Programme Manager, Kala Sangam, Bradford