The Troth - Usne Kaha Tha Akademi 2018-03-20 | Akademi's new international dance theatre production 'The Troth', filmed at Curve Leicester, supported by The Space. A gripping wartime story of love and loss, inspired by the classic Hindi short story Usne Kaha Tha (written in 1915 by Chandradhar Sharma Guleri)Full production credits and tour info: akademi.co.uk/thetroth The action moves from the intense life and colour of rural India to the horrific darkness of the trenches in Belgium where young Indian men have been brought to fight for the Allied Forces. As the drama unfolds, we learn about the secret promise made by one soldier, Lehna Singh, as he makes the ultimate sacrifice to save another.Marking the centenary of World War I, award-winning choreographer Gary Clarke unfolds the poignant narrative through contemporary dance, music and film.Cast: Dom Coffey (Bodha), Daniel Hay-Gordon (Recruiting officer, Sergeant Major, Lt Sahib)Vidya Patel (Leela)Deepraj Singh (Wazira)Songhay Toldon (The Subedar)Subhash Viman Gorania (Lehna Singh)Direction and Choreography: Gary ClarkeAssistant Director: Daniel Hay-GordonDramaturg: Lou CopeComposer: Shri SriramFilm: Josh HawkinsLighting: Charles WebberProducer: Penny AndrewsFind out more: akademi.co.uk/thetroth
Kathak with Live music at Great Exhibition Road Festival 2026 Akademi 2026-06-11 | A beautiful excerpt from the Bandstand at this year’s Great Exhibition Road Festival.Jesal Patel , Seema Patel and Trishna Kumari shared Kathak with festival audiences, their footwork, expressions and improvisation unfolding across the afternoon.Joined by Suneet Chandarana on tabla and Jayraj on flute, the performance grew into a lively exchange between dancers and musicians, and the audience, who also moved along with the artists.#greatexhibitionroadfestival #southasiandance #londonevents
An Artists Perspective: South Asian Dance in SEND Schools Akademi 2026-05-22 | Creativity and Wellbeing Week feels like the right moment to ask: what does this work look like from the inside, especially for the artist delivering it? We caught up with Nandita Shankardass, an Akademi artist in residence with our Reach Out and Reveal programme (ROaR) at Netley School Camden. ROaR places artists in residence at SEND schools to support the physical, emotional and communication needs of children and young people with Autistic Spectrum Condition and SEND.In this interview, Nandita speaks candidly about what that work actually demands of her: how she prepares before each session, how she translates and adapts the language of dance to meet each child where they are, and how working within ROaR has fed back into and transformed her own artistic practice."It has made me approach facilitating with deeper listening and inspired my creativity in working with young people."🎬 Watch the full interview above.Credits:Artists: Nandita Shankardass, Jesal Patel, Georgia CornwellSchools: Wembley Manor School, Manor School, Netley SchoolVideos: Justin Jones & Rajeswari RamaswamyEdited by Rajeswari Ramaswamy#CreativityAndWellbeingWeek #CreativeHealth #ROaR #SENDEducation@LoveCamden @Paulhamlynfoundation @BBCCiN @artscouncilofengland @londonarts&healthforum @arts&mind
Dancestors 2025 Akademi 2025-10-30 | This unique project, supported by British Council Malaysia’s Connections Through Culture grant, bridges South Asian and Orang Asli Semai cultures through dance while addressing issues faced by these marginalised communities around the loss of their land and traditions.In July 2025, Artistic Director Suba Subramaniam and dance artist Jesal Patel, along with Gerimis Arts and filmmakers, worked with members of Malaysia’s Orang Asli Semai community. Together they explored and shared their culture and stories through dance and movement. The participants were from the Luheiw Renaweij group, founded by Ronnie Bahari.This collaborative journey involved co-creating workshops and performances, building towards a film of the work-in-progress.Watch the full film of Dancestors Malaysia — a journey of connection, collaboration, and shared heritage through dance.
Diwali at Devonshire Square 2025 Akademi 2025-10-23 | What an evening at Devonshire Square on Tuesday! 🪔From the infectious energy of Bhangra and Bollywood to the intricate storytelling of classical forms, the Western Courtyard blazed with colour and celebration. We're particularly proud to present South Asian dance forms like Manipuri, Odissi, Rajasthani folk and Kandyan — seldom seen in the UK—as part of our efforts to celebrate South Asia's diverse dance traditions.A landmark evening in more ways than one: @dsq_london celebrates 10 years of bringing culture to the Square making it an iconic venue in London, and it has been Akademi’s honour to collaborate from the very first event. Here's to a decade of light, creativity, and community. Thank you for having us!Thank you to everyone who joined on the day and celebrated Diwali with us!
Focus On: Agra Colonnade Akademi 2025-09-24 | One month since this fantastic event where we gathered at V&A East Storehouse for Focus On: Agra Colonnade – an afternoon of dance, conversation, and community that brought new life to one of the museum’s most remarkable architectural fragments.Through live performances, movement workshops, and artist conversations, we reimagined the story of the Agra Colonnade, centred around our acclaimed film Mehfooz. It was a powerful celebration of heritage, creativity, and collaboration – reminding us how dance can transform silent stone into a living narrative.Huge thanks to our choreographer @shyamdattanii , filmmaker @romain.beck , the incredible artists, collaborators @vam_east , and all who joined us in making the day so memorable.Artists:@annika.s@kanharipinge@annierantony@callhimherbie@snehasaboodana@hashnasiva@deepakiyer_london@pitchaiappahgnani#southasiandance #artinmuseums
Celebrating South Asian Heritage month with @AllianzUK Akademi 2025-07-28 | What a brilliant afternoon celebrating @southasianheritagemonth_uk with @allianz_ukOur artists brought colour, rhythm, and energy with a lively Bollywood performance at their Gracechurch Street office.Beyond the performance, it was inspiring to hear their senior leadership discuss best practices, while employees shared their personal journeys during a powerful panel discussion on Inclusion, Diversity and Belonging. These conversations matter!Huge gratitude to Allianz_Uk for inviting us and massive love to the artists – @aparajita.dance , @mezpx , and @eshiita_#southasianheritagemonth_uk #southasiandance #bollywooddance
Anjana Bala: Artist Commissions 2024 Recipient Akademi 2025-07-08 | 2 days of R&D at @sadlerswells_east for Anjana Bala’s new work “Labored”, exploring the commodification of culture, the entrepreneurial self, and the death of tradition.Co-commissioned by @akademidance and @danceeast with further support from @rosechoreographicschoolCommissioned Artist: Anjana Bala #anjanabalaCollaborators:R&D Artists: Aishani Ghosh @_aishanighosh , Adhya Shastry @adhya.shastry , Kavya Iyer Ramalingam @kavya.irMusical Sketch : Nicole Robson @nicolerobsonDramaturgy: Martin Hargreaves @no_other_thrillProduction Support: Izzy Galbraith @iz_whiz , Ritesh Sunnasy @riteshsunnasy#southasiandance #artistcomissions #anjanabala
Akademi at V&As Make & Meet event Akademi 2025-03-19 | Picture this: the rhythmic swirl of @jesalpatel_is ’s Kathak, the soulful melody of @nirajchag , and the focused strokes of young artists capturing their magic. That’s what happened at the @vamuseum ’s Make and Meet event on 7 March.This was a collaboration between the museum, Akademi, visual artist @rosemaryjanecronin , and the incredible participants, all inspired by the V&A’s ‘The Great Mughals’ exhibition. Rosemary guided a live drawing session where Jesal’s fluid movements and striking poses became art, interpreted through the eyes of these budding artists.📸 @hydardewachiMusic - thanks to Niraj Chag#southasiandance #kathak
Akademis Plastic Drastic Fantastic workshops at The University of Southern Mississippi, USA - Jan25 Akademi 2025-03-19 | The University of Southern Mississippi students trying out the ‘machine’ section from our show Plastic Drastic Fantastic and absolutely crushing it! 💥Choreography by Akademi Artistic director, Suba Subramaniam, who led workshops for them in Hattiesburg, USA in January 2025.#southasiandance #AkademiGoesToAmerica #plasticdrasticfantastic
Akademi showreel 2025 Akademi 2025-03-04 | We're thrilled to share our brand new showreel! 🎉 Get a comprehensive look at what we do, all packed into one exciting video. From delivering workshop in a hospital to making a show on climate change, you'll get a real sense of what we're all about. A massive shoutout to the talented Justin Jones for his amazing editing. All this work wouldn't have been possible without the support of our artists, partners, participants, audiences, funders and freelance crew. Music by Shri Sriram, commissioned for Akademi's Sufi:Zen 2009
*NEW TRAILER | Akademi Plastic Drastic Fantastic Trailer (2024) Akademi 2024-02-06 | Plastic Drastic Fantastic is a contemporary dance theatre work for children and their families which explores our complex relationship with plastics – the fantastic possibilities they offer, as well as the drastic consequences to the environment.Drawing from South Asian dance techniques, the artists explore plastics and the dangers of their misuse through intricate movement, gestures and play infused with interaction with the audience. The processes and stories underpinning this project have been steered by children and young people – who are at the heart of the research for this work – created in collaboration with material scientists at UCL. The show initially was co-produced with Polka Theatre.Plastic Drastic Fantastic is an inclusive experience, accessible for d/Deaf young people and children.
Akademis Pravaas (2023) - trailer Akademi 2023-06-23 | Pravaas is a promenade performance inspired by the climate migration of people from the Sundarbans across India and Bangladesh. Themes of loss and hope, community and people, landscapes and shelter, refugees and livelihoods explored through the beauty and poignancy of South Asian dance forms and classical Carnatic vocals. Choreography by Vidya Patel, Artistic Direction by Suba Subramaniam, featuring dance artists Aishani Ghosh, Mithun Gill, Shree Savani and vocal artist Swati Seshadri.Sundarbans is the world’s largest contiguous mangrove forest supporting approximately 4.37 million people. Due to climate change and rising sea levels, islands and homes are disappearing and the local’s way of life and making a living is under serious threat.Pravaas is presented by Akademi, has been supported by Without Walls and commissioned by Norfolk & Norwich Festival and Brighton Festival.Supported by 101 Creation Space and through public funding by Arts Council England. With thanks to Inside Out Dorset. The R&D for Pravaas was supported by Blueprint: Without Walls R&D Investment Fund.Cello and Dilruba artist: Sarah MoodyMusic/sound Artists: Matt Olden and Kathy HindeDesigner: Martin LinesCreative Consultant: Claire RafteryAudio Description: Maryam ShakibaCostume: Rahemur RehmanProducer: Lia PrentakiProduction Manager: Chris BurrSound Technician: Ezra GrayVideo: Justin JonesArt: Brian HartleyPress: The Space inBetween
Akademi Manifesto Akademi 2023-01-04 | Akademi’s Manifesto is a new statement represents Akademi’s public declaration and commitment of our aims and values. It is developed by the Joint CEOs in consultation with the board of trustees and independent Artist Advisory Group in summer 2021.Video by: Justin JonesBSL interpretation by: Sandy Deo
Popular Opinions on Plastic Drastic Fantastic Akademi 2022-04-29 | Watch the reviews from audience members that have seen Plastic Drastic FantasticTickets available nowpolkatheatre.com/event/plastic-drastic-fantastic
Plastic Drastic Fantastic Teaser Akademi 2022-03-25 | Plastic Drastic Fantastic is a vibrant, fun and thought-provoking show for everyone age 7 and above. Book tickets now!www.polkatheatre.co.uk/event/plastic-drastic-fantastic7th April to 8th May 2022
Akademis Oral History Project Akademi 2021-04-15 | Oral History is the art of collecting spoken testimonies - these are personal, intimate and unique audio records that illuminate much about the time and society that has been lived through. As part of Akademi's Heritage Project, more than 30 pupils from across Krishna Avanti Primary School (Harrow), Pagrav Dance Company and Sanskruti Cambridge took part in a multi-layered project with Oral Historian Laura Owen and Lead Dance Artists Krishna Zivraj-Nair, Linnéa Husmann, Parbati Chaudhury and Olivia White.Participants collected precious oral testimonies from elderly family and community members, and used this experience to devise a choreographic response, drawing upon themes of diaspora, migration and identity. You can listen to the original testimonies via 3 curated podcasts on our website: akademi.co.uk/oral-history-project. Film by aliceunderwoodfilms.com/ Search #AkademiChronicles or visit akademi.co.uk/heritage-project for more information about Akademi's Heritage Project. Funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England.
Akademi Heritage Project | Heritage Performance Commissions Akademi 2021-04-12 | Akademi has pioneered a new initiative that sits at the intersection of choreography, community and performance. Selecting 6 objects from a wide range of past Akademi projects and initiatives, we commissioned 3 dance artists to choose one archival object each, and use it as a springboard for a new choreographic exploration and to inspire a workshop for Key Stage 2 school pupils.Hiten Mistry, Jaymini Sahai and Sophie Holland worked together as a new team to develop and deliver these workshops through the digital medium, creating a comprehensive package for primary schools.If you are interested in booking this free package for your school, please email info@akademi.co.uk. Film by aliceunderwoodfilms.com Search #AkademiChronicles or visit akademi.co.uk/heritage-project for more information about Akademi's Heritage Project. Funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England.
#AkademiChronicles - Part 3 | South Asian Dance in education, health and wellbeing Akademi 2021-04-08 | In the past year, we have been unearthing the history of South Asian dance in the UK as we go through the rich archives of Akademi as part of our Heritage Project, funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund.In this three-part film series created at home over the lockdown, we delve deep into Akademi's archives to discover the socio-political context that has shaped the dance form and our work. Find out more about Akademi's Heritage Project here: akademi.co.uk/heritage-project
Episode 2 | What is the relationship between South Asian dance & the Commission for Racial Equality? Akademi 2021-04-08 | In the past year, we have been unearthing the history of South Asian dance in the UK as we go through the rich archives of Akademi as part of our Heritage Project, funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund.In a three-part film series created at home over the lockdown, we delve deep into Akademi's archives to discover the socio-political context that has shaped the dance form and our work. Find out more about Akademi's Heritage Project here: akademi.co.uk/heritage-project
#AkademiChronicles 1 | What did the remnants of the British Empire have to do with Indian dance? Akademi 2021-03-26 | In the past year, we have been unearthing the history of South Asian dance in the UK as we go through the rich archives of Akademi as part of our Heritage Project, funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund.In a three-part film series created at home over the lockdown, we delve deep into Akademi's archives to discover the socio-political context that has shaped the dance form and our work. Stay tuned for more in this series.Find out more about Akademi's Heritage Project here: akademi.co.uk/heritage-project
APOTHEOSIS: Behind the Scenes Akademi 2021-03-19 | Akademi Dance-Film Festival 2021 presents the World Premiere of Apotheosis.ADFF 2021 will feature new and archived South Asian dance films along with selected talks with filmmakers and dance artists.eventbrite.co.uk/e/akademi-dance-film-festival-2021-tickets-144498086667
ADFF2021 OFFICIAL TRAILER Akademi 2021-03-08 | A sneak peak into Akademi Dance-Film Festival 2021, celebrating South Asian Dance on Screen. See the full programme & register for your FREE ticket here: akademi.co.uk/adff2021Curated by screendance practitioner, Omari ‘Motion’ Carter, and our Artistic Director, Suba Subramaniam, the festival will feature new and archived South Asian dance-films along with selected talks with filmmakers and dance artists.
Akademis BELLS (2007) Akademi 2020-12-23 | Akademi's BELLS, performed at the Trafalgar Square Festival 2007, as a commission from Mayor of London.Original Choreography: Kumudini LakhiaRe-choreography: Amina Khayyam and Urja Desai ThakoreComposer: Atul Desai and Niraj ChagProduction design and Sculpture: Naresh KapuriaCollaborators: Theatre TolFind out more about the production here: akademi.co.uk/project/bells
Akademis MAAYA (2012) Akademi 2020-12-18 | A short clip from our MAAYA performance in Westminister Hall, which was part of the London Olympics celebrations in 2012.MAAYA was a creative journey encompassing the richness of a vivid sensory experience, Akademi presented a piece that projects the aesthetic values of contemporary Indian culture into the distinguished space in the heart of Westminster Hall. Directed by renowned choreographer Gauri Sharma Tripathi together with Shivani Sethia, Seeta Patel and Yamuna Devi, Maaya was a magical dream-like experience. Section one: An undulating wave of colour - A vibrant avalanche of dance forms burst forth, gradually settling into an undulating wave of colour. Section two: Inner tranquility - The wave of colour subsides and each dancer serenely explores the space. A processional tableaux portrays the inner tranquility of a calm mind. We are friends with ourselves. Section three: Intimate rapture - An intimate rapture arises out of a circulating mêlée of blurred motion. Experience harmony, swirling into a blissful trance of colour.FINALE by Priyadarsini GovindMaaya culminated in a finale performed by eminent, visiting Indian dancer Priyadarsini Govind. Priyadarsini performed pieces in the traditional style of Bharatanatyam that celebrates movement, the art of lyrical expression, the performance space and life itself. Starting with movement, the final dance seeks the bliss of oneness with creation.
The Adventures of Mowgli (1984) - Full Show Akademi 2020-11-26 | The Adventures of Mowgli was the first ever British professional Indian dance-drama that premiered at Bloomsbury Theatre in 1984. It was the first major production of the Academy of Indian Dance (Akademi) and was a major step in the development of a contemporary British South Asian dance, blending various South Asian dance styles in a theme expressive of both British and Indian culture. The Academy wanted a subject accessible to eastern and western audiences in Britain while offering challenges to dancers in the South Asian dance tradition and John Chapman, co-Director of the Academy with Pushkala Gopal, came up with the idea of using Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The Adventures of Mowgli was the first major Indian ballet to receive Arts Council funding.Choreographers V P Dhananjayan (working in Bharatanatyam and Kathakali), Pratap Pawar (Kathak), and Priya Pawar (Odissi) blended the North and South Indian styles – a significant move in the development of traditional South Asian dance as it negotiated it’s place in a contemporary Western context. This way of working, offered new and exciting possibilities for dance styles more often used to express the exploits of gods and heroes. The cast included Shobana Jayasingh and one of the Academy’s own pupils, ten-year-old Akram Khan, as Mowgli.
The Troth – Usne Kaha Tha Akademi 2020-08-07 | A story of love, loss and sacrifice in World War I is told through archive and new silent film footage, an evocative sound-score and powerful choreography by Gary Clarke, featuring BBC Young Dancer 2015 finalist, Vidya Patel. Filmed by The Space.Winner of the Herald Angel and the Lustrum awards and recipient of a host of five- and four-star reviews, Akademi’s The Troth can now be watched online.Through dance, music and film, The Troth tells a story of love, loss and sacrifice against the backdrop of the First World War. The production toured in India and the UK in 2018 and was performed at prestigious venues including House of the President of India, Jaipur Literature Festival, Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Southbank Centre.
APOTHEOSIS | The British Museum Akademi 2020-03-13 | As part of our 40th anniversary celebrations Akademi presented APOTHEOSIS on 15 November 2019 @britishmuseum against the backdrop of the exquisite sculptures in the Hotung Gallery. Featuring: Odissi Ensemble (Elena Catalano, Khavita Kaur, Maryam Shakiba), Suhani Dhanki, Payal Ramchandani, Archita Kumar, Upahaar School of Dance (Daniella Zak Zara Varghese, Piya Verma)Filming and editing by James Williams.www.jwcinematographer.co.uk
BROWN TANGLE | Festival Highlights Akademi 2020-02-19 | As part of our 40th anniversary celebrations Akademi presented BROWN TANGLE on 25 and 26 October 2019 at Rich Mix. These highlights will give you a glimpse into a weekend to remember.This two-day British Asian cross-arts festival included artist workshops exploring process, collaboration and interdisciplinarity; a retrospective programme with screen dance and performances; an eclectic cabaret and a spoken word open mic night.Co-artistic Directors: Nina Head & Shane ShambhuGuest Curators: Parbati Chaudhury & Raheem MirAkademi 40th Anniversary Producer: Nina HeadOpen Mic Night Partners: @ApplesandSnakesPoetry Lighting: Jai MorjariaStage Management: Beth Hoare-BarnesFeaturing: Arden Fitzroy, Azan, Beau Jangles, Ben Henry Edwards, Eva Recacha, Jaspreet Kaur ‘Behind the Netra’, Jay Jay Revlon, Kaajel Patel’s Nimbooda Panto, Kali Chandrasegaram, Kamala Devam, Khavita Kaur Meera Patel, Nina Rajarani MBE’s Srishti Dance, Pushkala Gopal’s Sanskriti UK, Rhiannon Faith, Shakila Maan, Shivaangee Agrawal, Shobana Jeyasingh Dance, Shree Savani, Shyam Dattani, Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan, Tara Pandeya, Tara Rajkumar OAM and Tayce.Filming and editing by James Williams.www.jwcinematographer.co.uk
NAVADAL 2019 | 40 years of nurturing excellence in South Asian dance Akademi 2019-08-14 | In July, Akademi marked 40 years of nurturing excellence in South Asian dance with NAVADAL, the National South Asian Youth Dance Competition and Rising Stars showcase, at One Dance UK’s U.Dance 2019 at Southbank Centre.Meaning ‘new shoots’ in Hindi, NAVADAL is Akademi’s biennial National South Asian Youth Dance Competition. It is an opportunity for young dancers to be recognised at an early stage in their career and is a catalyst for them to find new pathways into the dance sector.NAVADAL was presented in partnership with Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) and Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) Yuva Gati.Filming and editing by James Williams.www.jwcinematographer.co.ukPart of Akademi Heritage Online Chronicles under Akademi Heritage Project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Find out more about Akademi Chronicles by visiting akademi.co.uk/chronicles
Dance Dialogue at Asia House | Classical Indian Dance and its Contemporary Relevance Akademi 2019-07-24 | An exclusive partnering of eloquent Bharatanatyam artist and actor Rukmini Vijayakumar with Vena Ramphal a media celebrity, scholar and Bharatanatyam dancer. Their conversation framed classical Indian dance and its relevance in a global contemporary context. Rukmini discusses her experience in creating and touring work that adheres to traditional vocabulary while experimenting with context and presentation.The Dance Dialogue series at Asia House is part of Akademi's 40th anniversary celebrations. See akademi.co.uk for more information.Produced by Akademi at Asia House, with support from Arts Council England and Cockayne through the London Community Foundation.
Dance Dialogue at Asia House | Glittering Tales, with Swarnamalya Ganesh Akademi 2019-07-24 | In a special curation by Chitra Sundaram, Akademi launched the first of its Dance Dialogue series with the London debut of Dr Swarnamalya Ganesh on 25 June 2019. The noted Bharatanatyam artist and actor was joined by Chitra, a prominent figure in the UK dance community. Together they explored the narratives, the women, and the repertoire of ‘Sadir Āttam’: the command performance of the 17th – early 20th century that was presented in darbars and salons for royalty, aristocracy and officers of The Raj.The Dance Dialogue series at Asia House is part of Akademi's 40th anniversary celebrations. See akademi.co.uk for more information.Produced by Akademi at Asia House, with support from Arts Council England, Cockayne through the London Community Foundation, Indian Council for Cultural Relations and The Nehru Centre.
Akademi at ChelWest - celebrating 21 years of partnership Akademi 2019-06-25 | #Akademiat40 Our special lunch time performance at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital on 13 June. Akademi presented Aunusthan by Pagrav Dance Company to mark the 21st anniversary of our partnership with CW+ and 40 years of Akademi.Created by Renzo Vasquez.
Akademi | Bespoke wedding celebration 2018 Akademi 2019-05-15 | A bespoke performance created by Akademi in 2018 for a wedding. The event celebrated iconic Bollywood songs of yesteryear.Choreography: Emiko Ishii, Urja Desai Thakore (second and final extracts) and Sujata Banerjee.Original songs: 1. Zindagi mein pyaar karna seekh le (Film - Phool aur Patthar,1966)Director and Producer - O.P. Ralhan Music - RaviLyrics - Shakeel Badayuni Singer - Asha Bhosle2. Jab pyaar kiya toh darna kya (Film - Mughal-e-Azam, 1960)Director - K. Asif Producer - Shapoorji PallonjiMusic - Naushad Lyrics - Shakeel BadayuniSinger - Lata Mangeshkar and chorus3. Chaddh gayo papi bichhua (Film - Madhumati, 1960)Director and Producer - Bimal Roy Music - Salil ChowdhuryLyrics - Shailendra Singer - Lata Mangeshkar and Manna Dey4. Director - K. Asif Producer - Shapoorji PallonjiMusic - Naushad Lyrics - Shakeel BadayuniSinger - Lata Mangeshkar and chorus
Dancing with Splendour Akademi 2019-03-27 | An exciting project curated and delivered for The Royal Collection Trust at The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace. The five month long community engagement project was in curated connection with the Splendours of the Subcontinent exhibition and was supported by the Bagri Foundation. It involved four groups of young and older participants. One of them was our lovely Dance Well workshop members from Harefield Hospital. Film courtesy of Royal Collection Trust / © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2019. Artists: Archita Kumar, Elena Catalano, Parbati Chaudhury and Rachel WatermanGroups: Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospital, Riverhouse Trust, Blackfriars Settlement, Asian Women's Resource CentreExecutive Producer: Mira Kaushik OBEProject Management: Nina Head and Antareepa ThakurHarefield group managed by: Claire Farmer and Pia ZicchiPart of Akademi Heritage Online Chronicles under Akademi Heritage Project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Find out more about Akademi Chronicles by visiting akademi.co.uk/chronicles
Reach Out and Reveal | South Asian dance in SEN schools Akademi 2018-12-20 | Reach Out and Reveal is a pioneering initiative by Akademi that places South Asian dancers ‘in residence’ at schools for young people with Special Educational Needs. It's initial phase was supported by Paul Hamlyn Foundation. The second phase is supported by John Lyon's Charity and BBC Children in Need.Find out more: akademi.co.uk/reach-out-and-revealPart of Akademi Heritage Online Chronicles under Akademi Heritage Project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Find out more about Akademi Chronicles by visiting akademi.co.uk/chronicles
Reach Out and Reveal | An initiative for SEN schools by Akademi Akademi 2018-12-20 | Reach Out and Reveal is a pioneering initiative by Akademi that places South Asian dancers ‘in residence’ at schools for young people with Special Educational Needs. It's initial phase throughout 2018 has been supported by Paul Hamlyn Foundation.Find out more: akademi.co.uk/reach-out-and-reveal
Illicit Worlds of Indian Dance | Rich Mix, 2016 Akademi 2018-10-12 | First presented at Rich Mix, Friday 9 September 2016. Ethnomusicology professor Anna Morcom’s fieldwork became the impetus behind a specially curated event of dance, film and narration exploring the forces of inclusion/ exclusion that have shaped Indian performing arts over the last century.The event featured performances by Kathak artists Natalia Hildner, Raheem Mir and British born Japanese Bollywood artist Emiko Ishii. A finale was performed by Britain’s first gay Muslim drag act, Asifa Lahore and Leela Ek Paheli.Find out more about Akademi: www.akademi.co.uk Part of Akademi Heritage Online Chronicles under Akademi Heritage Project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Find out more about Akademi Chronicles by visiting akademi.co.uk/chronicles
The Troth | Autumn Tour 2018 Akademi 2018-10-11 | A gripping story of love and loss set during World War One. Inspired by the classic Hindi short story 'Usne Kaha Tha'.Moving from rural Punjab to the Belgian trenches where young Indian men have been brought to fight for the Allies, we learn about the secret promise made by one soldier, Lehna Singh, as he makes the ultimate sacrifice to save another.Marking the centenary of World War I, award-winning choreographer Gary Clarke unfolds the poignant narrative through contemporary dance, music and film. With music by Shri Sriram.---Find out more: akademi.co.uk/thetroth ---9 Nov | Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Cardiff11 Nov | Pavilion Dance South West, Bournemouth13 Nov | The Place, London16 Nov | The Bramall, Birmingham19 Nov | Blackburn Cathedral, Blackburn23 Nov | Watermans, Hounslow
Akademi | Inspiring audiences. Developing artists. Changing lives Akademi 2018-09-10 | Akademi, the UKs leading South Asian dance organisation has been inspiring audiences and changing lives by creating and nurturing excellence in classical, contemporary, popular and participatory South Asian dance since 1979.
Easy cardiovascular | Mudra dance Akademi 2018-08-21 | Artist - Jane ChanDance Well is Akademi's learning and participation project working with older adults. These exercises have been inspired by South Asian dance forms and our work with older adults.This is a performative exercise suitable for the middle of the class when the body is warm.Storytelling and mudras (hand gestures) are integral to Kathak. This exercise introduces mudras alongside a familiar song and can be performed seated or standing.Suitable for people living with dementia.Dance Well is funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
Balance | Classical walk and chakras Akademi 2018-06-01 | Artist - Rachel WatermanDance Well is Akademi's learning and participation project working with older adults. These exercises have been inspired by South Asian dance forms and our work with older adults.This is an excellent exercise to develop balance. Best done after the initial warm up around the mid point in the class when participants are feeling more relaxed. Have fun with the turns & allow participants to figure out the easiest way to get round. Once they've figured out the feet remind them that they are turning with the whole body & not just the feet & to keep the head up.Note: Be aware of balance, particularly when turning. If this becomes difficult or unstable keep the walking to one spot.Dance Well is funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
Joint articulation of upper body | Arches & Openings Akademi 2018-06-01 | Artist - Rachel WatermanDance Well is Akademi's learning and participation project working with older adults. These exercises have been inspired by South Asian dance forms and our work with older adults.This is a sequence that will work the upper spine, shoulders & arms. It is best to do this exercise after the initial warm up & some gentle stretching. Can be done seated or standing. It's recommended to start by doing the sequence once then having a rest before repeating as it involves lifting the arms above the head & opening the chest.Please be aware of participant's shoulder range of motion and holding the arms above chest height for too long for those with heart conditions.Suitable for people living with dementia.Dance Well is funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
Co-ordination and joint articulation | Bharatanatyam sequence Akademi 2018-06-01 | Artist - Archana BallalDance Well is Akademi's learning and participation project working with older adults. These exercises have been inspired by South Asian dance forms and our work with older adults.This is a basic Bharatanatyam sequence, suitable for teaching a group over the course of several weeks. This exercise is good for coordination, proprioception, rhythm work, cardio and increased mobility in joints. You may wish to introduce just the arms or just the legs before combining the movement. This is a great challenge for co-ordination and may be best taught facing in one direction to avoid confusion to directions.Suitable for people living with dementia.Dance Well is funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
Co ordination, expression and balance | Scarf improvisation Akademi 2018-06-01 | Dance Well is Akademi's learning and participation project working with older adults. These exercises have been inspired by South Asian dance forms and our work with older adults.This exercise is a chance for participants to access their own creativity and is also a chance for participants to further connect with each other. For those with limited mobility this can also be done sitting and a facilitator or more active group member can pair up. When used following a warm up this keeps heart rates raised and continues some cardio work. Suitable for people living with dementia.Dance Well is funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
Co ordination & expression | Telling stories with mudras Akademi 2018-06-01 | Artist - Archana BallalDance Well is Akademi's learning and participation project working with older adults. These exercises have been inspired by South Asian dance forms and our work with older adults.This is a storytelling exercise utilising Bharatanatyam hand gestures. This is a good exercise for the 2nd half of the class when beginning to bring the level of intensity back down towards the cool-down.This exercise is good for coordination, proprioception and body-mind connection. Some gestures may be harder for those with arthritis, moving the gestures around in a narrative example can be useful to include all participants even if they are not able to fully form the gesture.Suitable for people living with dementia.Dance Well is funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
Cardiovascular | Bouncy walk (kuthu walk) Akademi 2018-06-01 | Artist - Anusha SubramanyamDance Well is Akademi's learning and participation project working with older adults. These exercises have been inspired by South Asian dance forms and our work with older adults.This exercise is a cardiovascular exercise suitable for use in the middle of the workshop, after a full body warm-up. Note: Be careful with participants who have any problems with their knees, they may wish to use the seated version of the exercise.Dance Well is funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
Advanced cardiovascular | Cross knee bounce Akademi 2018-06-01 | Artist - Anusha SubramanyamDance Well is Akademi's learning and participation project working with older adults. These exercises have been inspired by South Asian dance forms and our work with older adults.This is a cardiovascular exercise, suitable for the middle of a class when participants are sufficiently warmed up. Some participants may find the standing version of this exercise challenging, in which case the seated version may be used. This exercise also improves balance and co-ordination.Dance Well is funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
