New ways to move forward

Santhulan 2019 is an effort to take dance to the public and not just professionals. Public that includes kids as well as adults. With performers ranging from five to 30, this show is not just reserved for one particular age group. Therefore, a kid will enjoy it as much as an adult. Santhulan 2019 is all set to be staged on May 4 at Ada Ranga Mandira. Talking to the director of Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts and director of this show, Jayachandran Palazhy we find out more about this show.

Jayachandran feels that as a country and culture, we have always had dance as a part of our lives. He says, “Dance is an integral part of our culture and with this urban place developing at a fast pace, we haven’t provided enough amenities for people to engage with dance and movement. This show is an effort to break that gap. Dance connects the body, mind and soul, and when these three aren’t connected, one can't live a fuller life.”

Santhulan is an opportunity to share the space equally by professionals and aspiring dancers. On themes they will be following this years he shares, “The first theme is ‘body matters’ which can be used as a pun. The body matters in whatever we do. The second aspect is ‘Bengaluru moves.’ Through this, we are trying to show the moves of Bengaluru. The third concept is about the city of Bengaluru moving ahead. Bengaluru has become a capital for contemporary dance in South Asia.”

On what one can expect from this show, he shares, “You won't see expert dancers. The spirit of the performance is a community coming together and celebrating everyone. You will be connected to the diversity of Bengaluru and art forms.”

The show is a mixture of dance forms. He shares, “It will have different contemporary dances like, Kalaripayattu, Bharatanatyam etc. " Jayachandran feels building community, bridges is the most important as people can share their experiences.”