11 Nov (Mon)
Speaker:
Rukmini Vijayakumar
Artistic Director of Raadha Kalpa & LshVa
Founder of the Raadha Kalpa Method for Bharatanatyam
Moderator:
Prof. Anna CY Chan
Dean of the School of Dance, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts
In this insightful session, Rukmini Vijayakumar delves into the rich tradition of Bharatanatyam, exploring its deep historical roots, and the transformative journey the dance form has undergone over centuries. Rukmini will discuss the fundamental principles of Bharatanatyam’s form and technique, shedding light on the evolution of its movement vocabulary, and how it has shaped the contemporary practice of this classical art.
The lecture will also focus on Bharatanatyam’s role as a form of dance theatre, a medium through which stories are told with a unique blend of rhythm, expression, and physicality. Lastly, Rukmini addresses the relevance and significance of being a Bharatanatyam performer in today’s world, reflecting on how the art continues to inspire both practitioners and audiences alike in modern times.
Special thanks to Rukmini Vijayakumar for her invaluable contributions and support.
Acknowledgements
India By The Bay
Asia Society Hong Kong Center
Rukmini Vijaykumar is the Artistic Director of Raadha Kalpa and LshVa, and the founder of The Raadha Kalpa Method for Bharatanatyam. Renowned for her innovative choreography and dynamic performances, she has showcased her artistry worldwide, including at the Jacob's Pillow Festival, LaMama Theater, Korzo Theater, Milapfest, and the Temple of Fine Arts. Her role as the goddess of love' in Pandit Ravi Shankar's opera Sukanya, produced by The Royal Opera House in 2017, brought her significant acclaim.