DCist Preview: Nrityanjali's Ritu Samharam

With the passing of Labor Day, the local arts scene starts to pick up as venues and companies begin their fall programs in earnest. The Nrityanjali Performance Troupe, a classical Indian dance ensemble based out of Gaithersburg, will also mark the change of seasons with a performance this Saturday.

The group specializes in Bharatanatyam, a South Indian classical form known for its color, precision, and theatricality. Nrityanjali's Artistic Director, Meena Telikicherla, is a respected Bharatanatyam instructor who has trained many of the region's top dancers, including Daniel Phoenix Singh, whose award winning company mounts the annual Fall Festival of Indian Arts.

"Nrityanjali strives to present Bharatanatyam to mainstream audiences," said Telikicherla. "While our focus is on classical dance, we introduce new themes and theatrical styles to our work."

The production, Ritu Samharam, which translates to "garland of seasons," is based on the work of celebrated 5th century Sanskrit poet, Kalidasa, with choreography by Prof. C.V. Chandrasekhar, one of India's leading Bharatanatyam artists. Kalidasa's poems, which will be sung and set to music, divide the year into six seasons: summer, monsoon, autumn, early winter, winter, and spring. Two to six performers at a time will dramatize the environment and wildlife that thrives during each time of year, as well as nature's effect on two lovers. The dance will also depart from tradition by employing Hindustani, or North Indian classical music (as opposed to Carnatic, or South Indian classical music) during certain portions, and also through some contemporary costume design.