Indian Classical dance forms are a combination of rhythm and body movement, facial expressions, and storytelling through hand gestures. Originating in the temples with ancient Sanskrit texts as their base, the dances convey spiritual ideas and religious anecdotes.

Dance pieces include pure rhythmic numbers where precise footwork is matched to intricate rhythms, as well as slower, more emotive pieces, featuring a strong drama element. The dancer is accompanied by an orchestra which usually includes a vocalist, percussionist and a variety of string and wind instruments – nowadays most orchestras record their music for the performance.

Vidya Bhardwaj and Shobie Doraisingam will be presenting Bharatanatyam and Odissi. Bharatanatyam has its origins in South India while Odissi has originated in the eastern coast of India. Bharatanatyam has more angular movements while Odissi tends to have more bends and curves in its presentation.

Vidya will present a solo piece in Bharatanatyam on Nataraja, the Hindu God of Dance. Shobie will present a solo piece in Odissi called Mangalacharan, which is an invocatory piece inviting the blessings of Lord Jagannath of Puri and planet earth. Vidya and Shobie will dance the final piece together blending both styles of dance.

Duration: 30 minutes