The Human Self is inexplicably complex, beautifully layered and exquisitely conflicted. Mythical characters are often portrayed in the context of a story where the narrative takes more prominence over them as individuals. Aham explores the intensely human emotional and circumstantial complexities in the characters of Kunti as Karna’s mother, Ravana as a devotee of Shiva, and Shakuni’s revenge and strategies.
From the inception, we were excited by the idea of having a stage energized with a forty member orchestra playing live classical music and interacting with a group of dancers. The challenge laid in giving space for both music and dance without one overpowering the other. Scenes were anchored around the abstract sentiments and emotions attributed to the character rather than their narrative. Using minimal lyrics and extensive musical passages gave more freedom to visualise emotions through unconventional movements and story-telling.
- By Alastair Macaulay, The New York Times, 16 Aug 2017
(Performance for the Erasing Borders outdoor festival, New York City curated by the Indo
American Arts Council and co-presented by Battery Dance)