chitra (2021)
The sanskrit word, chitra, translates to picture and is the name of a lunar constellation that is symbolized by the transformative process in creating a bright jewel. Like the heat, pressure and tension needed in the creation of a bright jewel, my body has often experienced moments of discomfort, and resilience to seek balance, connection, and self-expression through classical dance. Using the framework of rhythmic exchange, the work, investigates a dialogue between a musician and dancer as well as an internal push/pull of a body negotiating between pre-conceived structures and the curiosity to explore beyond what is know.
This work has been presented at CanAsian’s Grit Short Dances Festival and supported by CanAsian Dance and Sampradaya Dance Creations.
Credits
Commissioned by CanAsian Dance for GRIT Short Dances Festival (2021)
Supported by CanAsian Dance and Sampradaya Dance Creations
Choreography: Purawai Vyas
Performers: Purawai Vyas (dancer) and Neena Jayarajan (musician)
Music: Neena Jayarajan, Lakshminarayana Subramaniam
Dramaturg: Suma Nair
Director of Videography: Sid Sawant
Production Assistant: Rachana Joshi
Videography and Editing: OnUP Productions, Purawai Vyas
Press
“At times, her movements are introspective, restrained and even hypnotic….In other moments, the performance is flashy and unrestrained…” - Stories of Struggle and Triumph Underscore GRIT: Short Dances by Joshua Chong