Tapping Into Histories
They may seem to exist on different planets, but Indian kathak and American tap dance share significant experiences — a history of oppression and endurance included. Kathak, rooted in centuries-old Indian storytelling traditions, was forced underground when British colonial forces in India tried to crush it. Tap was a means of expression among slaves on plantations in America. Both forms have been embraced by new generations, and these are represented in
Speak, an East-meets-West performance spotlighting female talent. Presented by Chitresh Das Dance Company and Z Space, and inspired by earlier collaborations, the show will feature Das disciples Rachna Nivas and Rina Mehta in the kathak arena. Performing tap are dancer-choreographer-teacher Michelle Dorrance and Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, whose credits include the world tour of Bring in Da Noise, Bring in Da Funk. Music, an integral component of both kathak and tap, also is on the bill, provided by sitar and jazz ensembles.
— Anita Katz
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