AUDIENCE REVIEW: "Tattva of Prakriti" at the Indian Dance Festival in World Famous Carnegie
Company:
Adhyaathma LLC
Performance Date:
July 7th 2024
Freeform Review:
Festival: Indian Dance Festival
Performance Title: Tattva of Prakriti
Venue: Stern Auditorium, Carnegie Hall, New York
Dance Form: Bharatanatyam
Choreographer: Acharya Smt. Ramya Shankaran
Music Produced by: Adhyaathma LLC
Dancers: Ramya Shankaran and her Disciples
Performance Overview: "The Geometry of Tattva" delves into the essence of the five fundamental elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether—interpreted through the refined movements of Bharatanatyam.
The renowned Carnegie Hall served as the backdrop for the Indian Dance Festival’s "Tattva of Prakriti," an extraordinary Bharatanatyam performance masterfully choreographed by Ramya Shankaran. This part of the "Geometry of Tattva'' series brilliantly wove together ancient philosophical motifs with contemporary geometric designs. Under Shankaran’s guidance, the dancers from Adhyaathma delivered a performance marked by precision and elegance.
Choreography and Execution:
Ramya Shankaran’s choreography was a stunning display of creativity and skill. Each segment, representing one of the five Tattvas, was portrayed through detailed geometric dance patterns. The transitions between these segments were seamless, and the formations were dynamic, encapsulating the unique characteristics of each element. Shankaran’s profound knowledge of Bharatanatyam and her inventive approach were clear in every movement.
Footwork:
The dancers' footwork was impeccable, underscoring their rigorous training and technical prowess. The rhythmic patterns were sharp and distinct, perfectly aligning with the geometric themes of the choreography. The intricate jathis were executed with synchronized precision, showcasing both individual brilliance and group cohesion. Ramya Shankaran’s performance was especially notable, blending strength and elegance with ease.
Overall Experience:
Experiencing "Tattva of Prakriti" at Carnegie Hall was truly transformative. The venue’s grandeur amplified the visual and emotional impact of the performance, creating an atmosphere of awe and reverence. The dancers’ energy and passion were palpable, immersing the audience in a profound exploration of the Tattvas through geometric movements. Their dedication and enthusiasm were evident, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
In Final Thought, "Tattva of Prakriti" was an innovative performance that seamlessly combined ancient Eastern philosophies with modern geometric principles through Bharatanatyam. Ramya Shankaran’s visionary choreography and the dancers’ exceptional talent resulted in an intellectually stimulating and captivating experience. The dance and music production by Adhyaathma LLC was impeccable, highlighting the beauty of Bharatanatyam and offering fresh perspectives on the dance form.
Author:
Mohanalakshmi Anathakrishnan
Photo Credit:
Photo courtesy of Carnegie
