Dr. Ratna Roy and her company return with an entirely new program celebrating the rhythms, characters, and stories of ancient India. Appropriate for Grades 2 and above.
Odissi took India by storm in the 70’s and Europe in the 80’s. Characterized by the unique sculpturesque quality, the separation of the upper torso from the lower half of the body, and in the constant juxtaposition of rhythmic strength with lyrical torso movements, the Orissi (literary transliteration) or Odissi (popular transliteration) classical dance style of India is over 2000 years old, and was revived through inspired efforts in India in the 1950’s. Odissi takes inspiration from both temple sculpture and the well-loved epics of India, the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Under the direction of Dr. Ratna Roy, Urvasi Dance Company has practiced and promoted the research and practice of classical Odissi/Orissi dance throughout our region and internationally, for more than 30 years.
For additional information, please contact Bonnie Showers (BPA’s International Outreach Program Coordinator, and Bainbridge Island Arts Education Community Consortium Program Manager) at 206.855.7816 or bonnieshowers@msn.com.