August 15 2013 8pm, Phoenix Theatre,Gandy Street,Exeter
Bollywood Contemporary Dance and Urban British Poetry collide in the stunning new show Antara.
This new production devised around the Sanskrit word ‘antara’ meaning ‘between’ follows the story of a young man who is trying to find peace, having rejected an alien love, because she is different. The voice is that of a third generation Indian Brit and his journey to reconnect with his culture and regain his sparkling love. Drawing on references in the ancient Vedic text to the ties that bind the inner and outer worlds, Antara explores the space between science and spirituality, seeking to sooth the aching disconnection of modern living.
“Antara mixes rhythmic, world music with urban British poetry. The combination of these evocative sounds fires the choreographic imagination and superbly underscores the poignant story of a bewildered young man. To balance the mix is the challenge and one I relish” says Amanda Knott the artistic director who has previously been with Ballet Rambert and the Creative Cow touring company.
Antara combines the talents of Ajeesh K Balakrishnan fresh form the Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts in bangalore and Exeter based dancer Kay Crook with the words of the local write JoJo Spinks in collaboration with urban poet Steve Duncan. In a truly inter-cultural cooperation Antara celebrates diversity, bringing together influences from all over the globe to create a visually stunning performance that interweaves dance and poetry to skilful effect.
Tickets £8 from Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, tel 01392 667080 or www.exeterphoenix.org.uk