British-born Bharatanatyam and Contemporary dancer Shane Shambhu (“striking and excellent” The Stage) and Kuchipudi dancer Arunima Kumar came together for a special double bill on April 28 as part of Akademi’s programme to showcase new work.
In a South Asian themed evening of events at Rich Mix, Akademi joined Southbank Centre artist in residence and Sarod player Soumik Datta for his ‘Circle of Sound’ premier in collaboration with Bernhard Schimpelsberger.
Shane Shambhu premiered his latest work, Dr Jagad & Mr Haridas a comical, fresh and imaginative take on the original, Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, which reflects on modern science and identity. Shane presented a second piece entitled Pogunilla. Arunima Kumar presented a classical Kuchipudi performance in three pieces.
As part of the Rich Mix spring season of dance, this was the first time these two artists have been presented together; through contrast showcasing the best in contemporary and classical South Asian dance.
This double-bill was the first Akademi presentation at Rich Mix in 2012 and part of a series of profile performances hosted by Akademi, which seek to showcase new work by South Asian dancers and choreographers. Another profile performance will be held at Rich Mix in the autumn.
