Plays and dance performances from different states of India at 8th Theatre Olympics

Extending its theme of cultural exchange, the 8th Theatre Olympics staged vibrant multicultural performances from different states of India at National School of Drama, Sri Ram Centre and

Kamani

, recently. The Chhau dance from Odisha celebrating martial arts, acrobatics and athletics was performed in the festive theme of a folk dance combined with the religious themes found in Shaivism, Shaktism and Vaishnavism. The joyous dance Bihu was also performed featuring brisk dance steps and rapid hand movements. Dancers wore traditional, colourful Assamese clothing. The traditional folk dance of Himachal Pradesh, known as

Nati

was staged giving a glimpse into the culture of the Himalayan state of India. The famous Ghoomar dance from Rajasthan involving performers pirouetting while moving in and out of a wide circle raised the festive spirit of the Theatre Olympics.

Chhau dance from Odisha


Plays staged at the festival
Crossings: Exploring The Facets Of Lady Macbeth: This English play directed by Vikram Iyengar represents the facets of Lady Macbeth, in constant conflict, to create a fluid performance, bringing together elements of Indian classical dance, movement, the original text of Macbeth, Hindustani classical, folk and tribal music. The play was staged at

Shri Ram Centre

.

Across The Sea: This Non-Verbal play directed by Anurupa Roy narrates the adventure that takes a baby penguin from Antarctica across the sea to Africa. In this journey the baby penguin meets many new and strange creatures, and makes friends fearlessly and without judgment. The play was staged at Kamani Auditorium

1-12-58: This Hindi play directed by Ujjwal Kumar depicts the tale of 90’s era Ranvirsena, a private army of the upper-caste Bhumihar landlords who massacred around 282 lower caste people, including women and children, in Bihar.