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| Mallika Sarabhai at the Indian Embassy Mallika Sarabhai, India's leading dancer will appear in a "Meet the Artist" program at the Embassy of India, Washington, D.C., at October 26, 2005. Mallika Sarabhai, a classically trained dancer is known for her contemporary interpretations of Indian dance forms and advocacy of women's rights and issues of social justice. Mallika first garnered international attention for her performance in Peter Brooks's The Mahabharata. Since then, Sarabhai has continued to reach audiences around the world through her performances and her work as a director and choreographer. At the same time, she has addressed a range of contemporary issues through her art -- from the role of women in Indian society to problems of racism and violence. In recognition of her efforts to promote social justice through the arts, Sarabhai was recently nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize as part of the 1, 000 Women for the Nobel Peace Prize campaign. Sarabhai has received numerous awards including the Palme d'Or and the Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres from the Government of France, and several awards from the Government of India. Mallika is visiting Washington, D.C., at the end of this month to take part in "Experience India, " a month-long festival of Indian dance and arts presented by Dakshina/ Daniel Phoenix Singh & Company. She and her group will perform an item titled "Hot Talas, Cool Rasas" at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center in College Park, Maryland, on October 29. Hot Talas, Cool Rasas, will feature Bharata Natyam, Kuchipudi, Kalaripayettu, and various Indian folk styles. It will include thematic vignettes that address topics such as women's experiences in mental asylums and the recent riots in Bombay as well as abstract rhythmic sections. The work will also incorporate a series of poems by the distinguished poet and actress Dipti Naval that explore human rights issues in India. Set to a vibrant score that showcases traditional Indian musicians such as Maestro Trilok Gurtu and Jazz virtuoso Danielle Goyone, the performance will be a unique combination of theater and social commentary. During her stay in D.C., Mallika will also conduct workshops, lectures and demonstration at the George Washington University and University of Maryland. write your comments about the article :: © 2005 Jazz News :: home page |