Initium

2009

A South Asian dance-led contemporary spectacle that juxtaposed the lyricism of Kathak with the spirited dynamics of modern dance, circus and folk theatre form, Yakshagana.

Initium was a South Asian dance-led contemporary spectacle conceived by AKademi’s Director Mira Kaushik in collaboration with Tony Charalambous. With a significant cast of dancers, it juxtaposed the lyricism of Kathak with the spirited dynamics of modern dance, circus and folk theatre form, Yakshagana. Punctuated by special effects, this vivid and fresh piece emphasised the way dreams can change in an instant, combining elements that clash at first glance, but ultimately work together to create a new reality.

The piece was a re-working of Akademi’s highly acclaimed production, Sapnay, originally directed by choreographers Gauri Sharma Tripathi and Mavin Khoo. Rhythmic soundscapes were produced by the internationally renowned DJ Per Qx, with eastern influences by Niraj Chag.

Akademi worked with the London College of Fashion to design and create the costumes for this dramatic piece which made its debut in London on the rooftop of BHS at the London College of Fashion in 2009. It then toured across the UK at Kensington Library (2009), Queens Crescent Community Festival (2009), Nottingham Mela (2009), The Mayor’s Festival in Newham (2009), London Mela (2009), Danson Festival Bexley (2009), Hounslow High Street (2009) before being invited to the prestigious launch of Queen’s Baton Relay (2010) and The Shimmy as part of the Wandsworth Arts Festival (2011).