An evening of dance by Nrityanchal

A group dance presentation by the students of Nrityanchal. PHOTO: STAR

On Sunday, May 28, Bangladesh Shishu Academy Auditorium came alive with captivating dance performances presented by the dance-students of the Nrityanchal Performing Arts Academy (NPAA). The organisation inspires classical dance practice and performance in Bangladesh. The NPAA consists of a group of young, vibrant and dedicated dancers.

The evening began with a series of dance ensembles, highlighting the historical and regional significance of dance in Bangladeshi culture. Artistes and connoisseurs of dance from the city came to enjoy this cultural treat.

Performances included, dance -- solo and group along with vocal and instrumental music both by junior and senior students of the Academy. The dancers performed Bharatnatyam, Kathak, traditional and other folk forms. A variety of dance styles provided the casual visitors the ideal opportunity to grasp the splendour and subtlety of a living performance tradition.

Kathak is both a religious and an entertaining dance form. A dance troupe from the senior section of the Academy presented an eye catching performance. Bharatnatyam is a complex fusion of pure dance, gesture, and mime. A group of young boys and girls performed two Bharatnatyam pieces with energetic movement and rapid, rhythmic footwork, interlaced with vivid narrative sequences and lyrical explorations of mood. An impressive dance number, titled Pal uraiya dee was staged in the show.

The glitzy dance show became more enjoyable when a comical dance item named Safdar daktar was presented. The dance Chol chol chol, was one of the most fascinating pieces of the show. Different ethnic and traditional music instruments complemented the brightly attired dancers. The concluding dance number of the event, titled Jonmobhumi gave a fascinating glimpse of Bangladeshi rich dance heritage. The dance event ran for two hours. More than 150 students participated in the colourful dance event.