multidisciplinary

biaecc presents urvasi dance

company ~ International

outreach performances

Odissi Classical Dance of India

January 16, 2009
Friday @ 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Tickets:
$6 per person; Contact Bonnie Showers, Bainbridge Island Arts Education Community Consortium International Outreach Coordinator, Bainbridge Island Arts and Humanities Council @ 206.842.7910 or 206.855.7816

This stunning dance-theatre from India--Odissi classical dance--is over 2000 years old and thrives today through its dynamic sculpturesque quality, juxtaposed with rhythmic strength and lyrical torso movements. Odissi takes inspiration from both temple sculpture and the well-loved epics of India, the Mahabharata and Ramayana, and is accompanied by virtuoso percussion and modal melodic music. The Urvasi Dance Company is the leading proponent in the United States of the mahari style (temple dance) of Odissi dance originating in the ancient artistic center of Orissa in India. Artistic director Ratna Roy in 2007 was honored in India for her dedicated work over the last 30 years with Urvasi and her North American dancers were acclaimed widely for their performances. Parents and families are heartily encouraged to attend in enthusiastic support of their students’ learning about world culture, and its connection to the community in which we live.

The 50-minute performance is suitable for all ages and is followed by a 10-minute segment for questions and answers.