PROGRAMME GUIDE JUNE 2011

A Tribute to “The King” Remembering Elvis Presley

Women of Power Showcasing Shakti through dance

Stage to Screen National Theatre London brings Frankenstein to NCPA’s stages

Danny Boyle’s Frankenstein 1 On Stage June 2011 1 On Stage June 2011

from the chairman’s desk

facility that members, as well as col- breakfast to dinner time. Its vast spaces tions abroad, so that the best interna- A laborators and supporters have been should be filled with events that will make tional offerings are available for viewing constantly requesting, is a proper theatre it an attractive destination for people by NCPA members and the public. restaurant and café that would cater, from all walks of life. not only to young visitors to the NCPA The NCPA will also embark on a new prop- and members before and after perfor- An exciting event this month is the first ma- erty named NCPA Legends, where we mances, but also to the general public, jor collaboration the NCPA will have with will ask current artistes in various genres to spend time in pleasant surroundings a prestigious foreign organisation, the Na- to pay tribute to legendary performers in and enjoy culinary delights over a wide tional Theatre in London. Although we are all spheres of music. The first concert will range of cuisines. In accordance with offered direct broadcasts of their plays, feature the popular Gary Lawyer, paying these requests, a new restaurant, chris- this would obviously be inconvenient due tribute to the King of Rock and Roll – Elvis tened Amadeus, will be opened around to the time difference. We have therefore Presley. We will also screen Elvis films a mid-June. decided to show these unique events few days prior to the performance. very soon after the actual performance One of the areas that need attention at in London. The NCPA is equipping one of In Indian dance, we will be highlight- the NCPA, is the inability to provide suf- its theatres to ensure a thrilling experience ing the Devi, the female character of ficient entertainment facilities for its mem- and theatre goers will be surprised at Indian Dance. bers during the day. `We are basically a the quality of the presentation provided. bunch of theatres that come alive in the Watch out for the announcement in this We have also decided that we will be evenings and have hardly any activities first series of performances with Danny highlighting future performances in each during the day. This is a situation we seek Boyle’s Frankenstein. issue of On Stage, so that members can to remedy by gradually creating pro- mark their calendars well in advance, grammes and facilities, which will make In the future, we hope to have many such and also arrange for early openings at the NCPA a desirable venue to visit from collaborations with prestigious organisa- the Box Office.

Khushroo N. Suntook 2 On Stage June 2011

J une 2 0 11

Danny Boyle’s Frankenstein

Danny Boyle’s Frankenstein will send shiver’s down Mumbai’s spine this summer! Letters

NCPA – On Stage Magazine to the editor Relationship Manager: Lily Shroff Consulting Editor: Anushree Chatterjee It was indeed an ecstatic experience attending the Mudra Dance Week, 2011. Deputy Editor-in-Chief: Jaideep VG The entire range of performances, with such great dancers from various styles, Editorial Co-ordinators: Divya Mishra, Priyanka Mathur was beautifully organised and presented. I thoroughly enjoyed the flavours of Hilda Darukhanawalla Art Director: Rahul Das each of the genres and will look forward to the same in the forthcoming events. National Photo Editor & Art Director: – Amrita Mukherjee Chirodeep Chaudhuri PR Manager: Rashmi Dhanwani NCPA’s Mudra Dance Week truly showcased some of the finest artistes who Senior RM Sales (West): Vishwanath Shanbhag are exploring the depths of Indian classical dance today. In particular, Margi Designers: Brijesh Gajjar, Chittaranjan Modhave Vijayakumar’s Poothana Moksham was a spectacular performance. One was Digital Imaging: Devang H Makwana left completely mesmerised, forgetting that the dancer was a male, in sthree Published by Deepak Bajaj for vesham! The National Centre for the Performing Arts, Also, it was a rare treat for Mumbai’s dance lovers, for whom Kathakali perfor- NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. mances in their home town is quite a rarity. – Purnima Patni Produced by Please feel free to write in with your comments to Lily Shroff (Relationship Manager – On Stage). We are committed to providing you with an enjoyable Project Management Team magazine and look forward to your feedback after each issue. We’d Editor in chief: Naresh Fernandes Chief Operating Officer: Rajnish Rawat like to know what you think about our programmes and our stories, and look Chairperson: Smiti Kanodia forward to bringing you exciting events on an ongoing basis. You may send

Editorial Office an email to [email protected] with your comments and feedback. Essar House, 11 KK Marg, PO Box No. 7964, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai 400 034. E-mail: [email protected]

Printed at NCPA Departments Ganesh Mudra, 208 Atlas Mill Compound, NCPA Chairman: Indian Music: Near Reay Road Station ( W ), Khushroo N. Suntook Dr. Suvarnalata Rao, Dr Baristor Nath Marg, Head – Programming Mazgaon Mumbai – 10 Materials in On Stage cannot be International Music: Marketing, reproduced in part or whole without Farrahnaz Irani the written permission of the publisher. Sales & Administration: Sr.Manager – Programming Views and opinions expressed in this Deepak Bajaj, magazine are not necessarily those Director Theatre & Film: of the publisher. All rights reserved. Deepa Gahlot, NCPA Booking Office 2282 4567 / 6654 8135 / 6622 3724 Head – Programming www.ncpamumbai.com Jt. Executive Director: Dance: www.soimumbai.in D. B. Biswas Amrita Lahiri, We look forward to your feedback and Head – Programming suggestions on the NCPA’s programmes, as well as our magazine On Stage. Please do write in to Centre of Photography as The Editor – On Stage, an Art Form: The National Centre for the Performing Arts, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021 or Mukesh Parpiani, E-mail [email protected], or Head – Piramal Art Gallery Fax (022) 6622 3830. contents

A tribute to the 10 King of Rock ‘n’ Roll The NCPA pays tribute to Elvis Presley. Lily Shroff takes us through this musical journey. On Stage Explores 12 – Shringar rasa Isabel Putinja studies jewellery, one of the prime aspects of an Indian dancer’s couture. On Stage Global 04 – World Views Stage to Screen 14 A look around the world for the most exciting Deepa Gahlot tells us why watching performing arts events in June. the theatre broadcast of Danny Boyle’s Frankenstein is a must-do this month. Programme 15 Guide All of June’s events at the NCPA. Glimpses of 29 April and May 2011 All that was memorable in the last two months. July 2011 30 Highlights 08 What to look forward to in the coming month. Women of Power NCPA Odissi and Bharata Natyam dancers pay homage to the eternal Shakti through their 32 News performances. Karanjeet Kaur tells us more. New developments at the NCPA. 4 On Stage June 2011 Stage Screent A collaboration between the NCPA and London’s National Theatre allows Mumbai audiences to experience the best of British Theatre. Deepa Gahlot tells us more

he NCPA always endeavours to bring its audiences the best theatre proj- Tects from across the world. For the first time in India, a collaboration with the UK’s National Theatre will enable audiences in Mumbai to see what the world is watch- ing—not on stage, but through high qual- ity digital recordings shot live. The National Theatre Live (NT Live) is a ground breaking initiative to broadcast the best of live British theatre around the world. The first NT Live production, which will be showcased only at the NCPA, is Danny Boyle’s smash hit, Frankenstein. This grand stage version of the Mary Shelley classic, adapted by Nick Dear, has a cast led by Benedict Cum- berbatch and Jonny Lee Miller alternating the roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature. Audiences will have the chance to see both combina- tions. Described as “visionary,” “mesmerising,” “stunning” and “brilliant,” the production by the Oscar-winning Slumdog Million- aire director, has garnered rave reviews in the press. 5 On Stage June 2011

Danny Boyle's Frankenstein comes to send chills down Mumbai's spine

In this gothic horror story, a scientist makes of the story have denied it to him. Start- a human creature out of separate body ing from the Creature’s point of view was "Once you get going, parts and brings him to life. Then, horrified the key to unlocking the adaptation. The you need to balance at the sight of the monster he has cre- key to then getting the production up and ated, he casts it away. The ugly innocent running was to rebalance the story. Once the Creature with his creature encounters hostility and cruelty you don’t start with Victor Frankenstein, it’s wherever he goes and in desperation, fantastically refreshing because it means obsession, his creator. then sets out to track down his creator… that you have to rethink everything. Once So we rebalanced our “Urgent concerns of scientific responsibil- you get going, you need to balance the ity, parental neglect, cognitive develop- Creature with his obsession, his creator. So approach by ment and the nature of good and evil are we rebalanced our approach by coming embedded within this thrilling and deeply up with the idea of double casting the coming up with the disturbing classic gothic tale,” reads the NT actors. If you are going to do that, Victor idea of double Live release. ultimately has to be an equal. So the first half of the play, the first 20 or 30 minutes, casting the actors." The first ten weeks of Frankenstein were is very much from the Creature’s point sold out in advance; after its resound- of view. And then it shifts to being this David Sabel, Head of Digital Media and ing success, the production run was ex- great debate between the two of them. Producer, NT Live, says, “The concept be- tended. The performance of the play has We wanted to get away from movie im- hind Danny Boyle’s Frankenstein is that the been broadcast to 375 screens around ages of the Creature and also the idea two lead actors are alternating the roles the world so far. According to estimates, that he is a stitched-together series of of the Creature and Victor Frankenstein. over 100,000 people worldwide watched parts, he’s a whole body that has been The concept is to look at the duality and the shows. Upto eight cameras were operated on internally. You’ll see evi- fusion of these two characters – the rela- employed to capture the broadcast the dence of his internal organs in the play. tionship of master/servant and creator/ same and make it dynamic and visually Shelley clearly based Frankenstein on creation, how they affect each other and exciting. In an interview with The Times, Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron, the what they learn from each other. It’s a re- London, Boyle said, “I haven’t directed extraordinary men in her life. They were ally fascinating approach and many peo- plays for 15 years but Frankenstein has egotistical romantics who were obsessed ple are booking to see both versions here been on my mind for a long time. I first with science. Of course, the play em- at the theatre – the scripts are the same, talked to the playwright Nick Dear about phasises that by putting two men at the but the staging and performances vary.” the idea of doing an adaptation of Mary heart of creation, women are excluded. Shelley’s novel when we worked on The And in reality, there was Mary Shelley con- Now Mumbai audiences will see this Last Days of Don Juan at the Royal Shake- stantly going through pregnancies, losing breathtaking production on screen, mark- speare Company. Nick’s first drafts were children and writing this incredible book. ing the start of high quality screenings of faithful to the novel until we came up with Whenever she got pregnant, she fell ill! National Theatre's productions at the NCPA. this idea of opening the play from the He couldn’t stand her having all the at- Creature’s point of view. Doing so gave tention. And so Frankenstein became a Frankenstein is on June 17, 18 and 19. the Creature his voice back; Shelley gave brilliant depiction of the self-importance For more information see page 24 of him a voice, but so many manifestations of men.” the Programme Guide. 6 On Stage June 2011

Reviews of Frankenstein ***** The Times ‘This taut, thrilling play runs with hardly a moment for breath.’ ‘Lee Miller is physically wild, free of the slightest self consciousness...’ ‘To see (Cumberbatch) hurling himself into the agile physicality and awkward strangeness of the Creature is revelatory, a quantum leap for his reputation.’ ‘... they’re both teriffic...‘It is a theatrical coup.’ ‘Mark Tildesley’s stunning design and Bruno Poet’s remarkable lighting effects use the Olivier’s vastness with controlled, imaginative strength.’ ‘The music, by Underworld, is perfect.’ ‘... it is rather wonderful: thoughtful, exciting, moving.’ ***** Sunday Express ‘Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller lend both gravitas and a frightening physical immediacy’ **** Independent ‘Boyle’s role-reversal twist a shocking, haunting success.’ ‘Danny Boyle’s extraordinarily haunting production.’ ‘Johnny Lee Miller’s astonishing Creature.’ ‘Lee Miller gives a whole new lease of life to the term “shock to the system”...’ ‘Cumberbatch is brilliant at conveying the blackly ridiculous aspects of the hubristic scientist.’ ‘These are imaginative productions that pack a devastating cumulative punch and score a singular success.’ **** Evening Standard ‘The National Theatre has a hit on its hands.’ ‘The opening 10 minutes are stunning. They are as atmospheric as theatre ever gets.’ ‘The scenes that concentrate on Cumberbatch and Miller are powerful. There is a compelling chemistry between them...’ **** Guardian ‘Cumberbatch’s Creature is unforgettable... It is an astonishing performance.’ ‘The actors complement each other perfectly.’ ‘Boyle’s production is a bravura triumph in which Mark Tildesley’s design provides a whole series of visual coups.’ ‘A stunning evening.’ **** Daily Telegraph ‘Boyle... pulls off something truly spectacular here.’ **** Daily Mail ‘Boyle draws terrifically gutsy performances from his two leads.’ ‘The visceral nature of the performances is tremendously impressive...’ ‘... this is a memorable production and will doubtless be spoken of for years to come.’

8 On Stage June 2011 of omen ower W pThe spirit of Shakti, the feminine force, is celebrated in the performances of Priya Venkataraman and sisters Leena and Leesa Mohanty, writes Karanjeet Kaur

or a country with such a de- pressing gender ratio and a his- Ftory of violence against women, our present belies our collective past. Our traditional arts and culture, inextri- cable from our spiritual beliefs, has al- ways valourised Shakti, or the feminine force. Classical dancers have referred to the epics and ancient Indian texts to illustrate this – and two upcoming performances at the NCPA this month, offer fresh perspectives on the same. Bharatanatyam dancer Priya Venkata- raman presents Devi, with episodes culled from Ananda Lahiri and Kalida- sa’s Kumarasambhavam, while sisters Leena and Leesa Mohanty perform a portmanteau Odissi recital Ambaa, inspired by the Mahabharata. 9 On Stage June 2011

Priya Venkataraman, born and raised in their father took note of a shloka in the Delhi, was expected to take lessons in Bhagavatam, which enjoined devotees to classical music and dance like any good enact the Krishna Leela, as the only way South Indian girl. “I hated my music les- of reaching God in Kalyug. This was also sons and tried to run away from them all the philosophy behind the creation of the the time,” she quips. But she gradually cultural organisation Bansi Bilas, a non- discovered it was in solely dance that her profit organisation, which was established interest and her heart lay – she took a brief in 1984 by their father, with the mandate to break during Class 12th to focus on her preserve and propagate Odissi. studies, and decided she never wanted to give it up. During her early years, she The organisation engendered several trained with Guru Saroja Vaidyanathan. productions – including Basanta Raas, Now, even as she juggles teaching young choreographed by the legendary Guru disciples in Gurgaon, she keeps shuttling Debaprasad Das, who also taught the to Chennai to train with A. Lakshman and girls – which travelled from one village to Bragha Bessell. the next. The troupe then graduated to performing in temples across Vrindavan, After her marriage, Priya moved to Illi- especially during the Dussehra holidays. nois, USA, where she established a dance Meanwhile, Basanta Raas was also pro- school named Kalakriti. At Kalakriti, she “Kumarsambhavam was duced as a film that went on to win several trained over seventy childern, of Indian the only sringara text I State awards, including a best child artiste diaspora parents, as well as Americans. could find, where the trophy for Leesa. She straddled teaching with performing all across the country and abroad, in places Devi is also a lover.” Now, after graduating from the presti- as diverse as Canada, Colombia and (Priya Venkataraman) gious IRMA (Insitute of Rural Managament Trinidad and Tobago. She also conducted Anand) in Gujarat, Leesa straddles a ca- residencies in American schools, where reer in HR by training youngsters, while she choreographed pieces for children’s Leena trains professional dancers. Along performances, and even collaborated with their individual practice around the with the Tony- and Emmy-winning play- world, together they run Bansi Bilas, orga- wright Terence McNally on A Perfect Ga- nising festivals, such as the First Interna- nesh in 1993, where she had to “teach a tional Odissi Festival, held in the capital at pot-bellied man some dance moves”. the Habitat Centre in 1999. Simultaneously, Leesa also runs the Powai-based Nirguna Priya’s repertoire is primarily traditional and Centre for Excellence, which trains children rarely includes any contemporary stylis- in Odissi and Hindustani music. tic influences. In her latest performance as well, the dancer has a rather modern The sisters say that most of their perfor- thematic consideration, but her choreog- mances are oriented around Krishna, often raphy and the flow of the performance re- highlighting the ‘Shyam-Shyama’ dichoto- main traditional. The recital is a combina- my inherent in the character. “But we had tion of heterogeneous set pieces in praise never explored the ‘she’ part in detail, so of the Devi as the mother, as the protector we decided to dedicate this performance and as Shiva’s consort. She commences to Ambaa, the feminine force,” says Lee- with verses from the scripture Ananda La- Page 8: Priya Venkataraman; Page 9 sa. The recital begins with a traditional in- hiri by Adishankara, followed by a varnam Leesa Mohanty and Leena Mohanty vocatory mangalacharan, dedicated to in praise of the Devi wherein Parvati is re- Kali – the rest of the performance follows ferred to as Vishnu’s sister, composed in in the USA. The two will have only a few her in her numerous avatars. Pallavi, set to Raga Todi. The latter half, or the abhinaya days ahead of the final performance to Raga Basanta, explores the sensuous and part of the performance has been culled rehearse together, but mercifully, technol- lyrical side of Odissi. As Leesa puts it, as from Kalidasa’s Kumarsambhavam and ogy has come to their rescue. The sisters sensuality rises, one loses the ability to take was especially composed for the recital. have been rehearsing and exchanging objective decisions – this part segues into “This was the only sringara text I could find, notes over Skype. Distance is but a minor the abhinaya bit, where Kunti’s dilemma is where the Devi is also a lover,” she says. quibble when you’ve spent your childhood focused on. The second part of abhinaya The evening concludes with a thillana in dedicated to the arts. is the Dasamahavidya, or “the ten forms Raga Nalinakanthi, composed by mridan- of primordial creative female energy”. The gam maestro Karaikudi Krishnamurthy. Born in Bhubaneshwar to industrialist and performance fittingly concludes with Krishna devotee Rabi Narayan Mohanty, Moksha, a dance of release. If Priya had trouble finding a conceptual the sisters inherited their father’s zeal to be text, the Mohanty sisters had basic logis- involved in and promote traditional arts. Ambaa is on June 9 and Devi is on June tical problems – younger sister Leesa is They recall being taken to Vrindavan at 16. For more details see page 20 and based in Mumbai, while Leena is based a young age, following an incident when 23 of the Programme Guide. A tribute King to the of Rock and Roll The NCPA presents a tribute to this iconic artiste, whose immortalised vocals have transcended generations together. Lily Shroff takes us through this musical journey. Famous Quotes on Elvis Bob Dylan When I first heard Elvis’ voice I just knew that I wasn’t going to work for anybody; and nobody was going to be my boss. Hearing him for the first time was like busting out of jail. Johnny Cash Elvis was so good. Every show I did with him, I never missed the chance to stand in the wings and watch. We all did. He was that charismatic. Mick Jagger He was a unique artist-an original in an area of imitators. George Klein Let’s not think of how Elvis died, but how he lived… the man wasn’t just a star he was a damn galaxy!!’… Elton John It was Elvis that got me interested in music. I’ve been an Elvis fan since I was a kid. 11 On Stage June 2011

hen you have a legendary per- drive millions crazy. In an attempt to find of these evergreen composers and sing- former’s music and songs, cou- privacy post his enormous success, Presley ers to create new waves of entertainment W pled with a rocking band where bought Graceland in Memphis his home, among the Indian audiences. In fact the in the lead you have Mumbai’s premier which was a 23-room, two storey mansion whole first week of June starting with the King of Rock and Roll pop-rock artist paying a tribute to this im- in 13.8 acres of ground at 3764, South Bel- 6th, 7th and 8th, will involve Elvis themed mortalized star you can’t help but want levue Boulevard in the Memphis suburb events at the NCPA, one of them are the to be a part of the action. Add a dash of Whitehaven. Today Graceland is the most 3 film screenings at the Little Theatre within the best performance location in Mum- famous address in modern music history. the NCPA. bai, couple it up with some fine American The famous music gates of Graceland cuisine, rocking music and you can’t ex- were installed in April of that year. It was The 6th will screen the 1957 hit film, Jail- pect anything less than a glorious evening open to the public only after Elvis’s death, house Rock which showcases Elvis’s leg- of fun and endless entertainment. That’s and an estimated 1 million people still visit endary portrayal of Vince Everett a pris- whats in store this 11th of June , 2011 at it yearly. oner who turns his life over to become a the Tata Theatre, NCPA where we superstar. On the 7th the renowned film have live in concert Gary Lawyer This was just the beginning of an icon that ‘This is Elvis’ will be premiered in the Little performing a Tribute to the exceeded mortality. The vast expanse of Theatre. In this biography concert movie ‘King of Rock and Roll- Elvis his musical works from rock, blues, and rare behind the scenes footage will be Aaron Presely!’ pop to gospel tunes captured the hearts shown covering the life and story of this and minds of millions. Elvis created waves great icon. The highlights will further in- Theres not much that with his first single Heartbreak Hotel in the clude Elvis’ first TV appearance in 1956, can be written about El- year 1956, and later that same year also scenes from his most popular movies, vis that people are not made his film debut in the English film, “Love Me Tender” and “Loving You”, plus already aware of, his fan Love me Tender. Some of his greatest hits concert scenes from his 1968 show, That’s following is unmatched even included Jailhouse rock, Let me be your the way it is, Aloha from Hawaii, and from today. In his 42 years (January 8, Teddy Bear, Hound Dog, and Are you his last filmed show in 1977 as well. 1935 – August 16, 1977) he man- Lonesome Tonight, among many others. aged to create glorious musical It becomes difficult to attempt to ape this Fans get to see him perform live with all and fashion trends and completely great artist, and only a humble effort can the essential hits – from the early rock n changed the face of American and be made, many artists over the years have roll tracks (Hound Dog, Don’t Be Cruel) to world music. Born in Mississippi, Presley paid their tribute through performances to the soulful ballads (Love Me Tender, Can’t moved to Memphis, Tennessee, with his this icon one such artist is Mumbai’s very Help Falling in Love) right down to his per- family at the young age of 13. He began own Gary Lawyer. sonal favorites (Heartbreak Hotel and Blue his career there in 1954 when Sam Phillips, Suede Shows). Finally on the 8th will be a (the then owner of a company called Sun When asked, ‘why Elvis?’ Gary replies documentary screening of ‘ Elvis by the Records) was eager to bring the sound of quite promptly ‘there can be no other; Presleys’ where for the first time his wife African American music to a wider audi- he was the most influential entertainer of Priscilla and daughter Lisa Marie offer an ence and saw in Presley a way to fulfill his mankind’ Going on he adds, ‘His music intimate look at Elvis’s life. vision. There was no limit to the sponta- exceeds genres and having performed niety and moves of this creative genius, twice in Pune to the similar theme, he Over the years artists have shaped differ- outrageous dress codes, long side-locks, knows the fan following in Mumbai will love ent aspects of civilization and vice versa, puffed up tresses ( his secret was a combi- to hear his tunes’ With the expanse and but few have managed to transcend gen- nation of Vaseline and rosewater) and an over powered support for Bollywood within erations with their popularity and talent. ever so handsome face the Indian media, Gary feels the need to The magic of stardom and a fan following could easily give create a space for Western Music across is addictive and limitless. The Elvis fan club any Hollywood genres is a must. With the finest indoor set started online, is one such example of this icon a run for up for performances at the NCPA (Nation- and is run in India by 107.1 FM, RJ and a his money, al Centre for Performing Arts), an Indian die-hard Elvis fan, Fali Singara who gathers add to it artist along with many international ones information from across India, connects a voice can create high quality live performances with fans and gives a thorough account of t h a t to enthrall audiences. Elvis’s life, films, songs and memorabilia. could This initiative is part of a new property cre- Of all the performers across generations ated at the NCPA called, ‘NCPA Legends’ inspired by Elvis and those bowed down to where recent artists will perform tributes to his talent , attitude and music one quote great musical legends. The first one in its sums it up as aptly as it could: Before Elvis series is the Elvis tribute and may be fol- there was nothing! – John Lennon lowed by tribute performances of Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, Mohammed The NCPA Legends – A Tribute to Rafi among many others in the years to The King of Rock and Roll concert come. This initiative by the creative de- by Gary Lawyer is on June 11. For partment at the NCPA has commenced more information see page 22 of the to expose and reignite the fan following Programme Guide. 12 On Stage Stage June 2011 Explores

rom the rakkodi on the crown of her vals. It was also worn by the resident tem- finish. Jewellery is very important for a head, to the nupura adorning her ple dancers, a tradition which is continued dancer. The belt enhances the waistline Ffeet, the classical dancer is literally to the stage, today. Traditional jewellery and the nose ring makes the dancer look bejewelled from head to toe. Jewellery is was made of pure gold and embedded very feminine and beautiful. I have a few an essential part of the dance costume. with uncut diamonds, rubies, emeralds pieces of temple jewellery which are my It adds sparkle to a dancer’s appearance and pearls. Today replicas are made in sil- favourites: I have a long necklace made of and enhances the visual effect and aes- ver, then coated in gold leaf and embed- gold and diamonds with mango shapes. thetic appeal of her dance, invoking rasa ded with semi-precious stones. Many traditional pieces are inspired by na- in the observer. ture. Also, during my initial dance perfor- “I find that the quality and craftsmanship mances, I would wear my mother’s gold South Indian temple jewellery has a very of temple jewellery has declined over the belt. This piece is very special for me and I long tradition dating back over 5,000 years,” reveals actress and dancer Hema still have it and cherish it.” years. It was traditionally made for temple Malini. “Of course, real jewellery is too ex- idols by master craftsmen who worked pensive to wear, so dancers wear artificial Temple jewellery not only adorns and em- within the precincts of these temples. jewellery. But after a few shows, it loses its bellishes a dancer; it is also believed to Nagercoil, a temple town in Tamil Nadu, shine and charm. For my dance ballets have a deeper significance. Pure gold is is famous for its jewellery, that is used to I get special jewellery made. It’s artificial believed to promote well-being. The surya adorn the deities during important festi- but very beautifully done, with an antique worn on the right side of the head and the

Isabel Putinja explores the history of jewellery traditionally worn by Indian dancers of the past and present 13 On Stage June 2011 chandra on the left, are believed to impart bengapatia was first introduced. A bro- men, there are over 38 for women, includ- a positive energy to the dancer, allowing ken and discoloured bengapatia was ing six for the hair and head, eight for the her art to flourish. The rokkodi worn on the found in an old box of jewellery belong- ear, six for the neck, at least two garlands crown of the head protects the brain. ing to the mother of a Brahmin from Puri. of jewels and pearls for the breast, eight Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra painstak- for the hands and fingers, five for the hips, For leading Bharatanatyam dancer Rama ingly rethreaded the belt and meticulously and three for the ankles and feet! Vaidyanathan, the sheer resplendence of cleaned it with tamarind. It was first worn South Indian temple jewellery is a good by legendary dancer Sanjukta Panigrahi at Bedecked and bejewelled in this way, it reason not to wear too much of it. “I love the All-India Dance Seminar held in Hyder- is difficult to imagine how a dancer can temple jewellery because its vibrant co- abad in 1963. Now it has become a hall- attempt even the simplest dance move- lours are very striking. It’s the ideal jewellery mark of the Odissi costume. ment! However, after this detailed descrip- to wear with Kanchivaram saris because it tion, the ancient text does concede that matches so well. But because it’s so strik- The use of costume and jewellery is called too much jewellery can restrict movement ing, I don’t want to clutter myself. The less I aharya abhinaya, one of the four types of and defeat its very purpose: “Too many or- wear, the more it stands out.” Rama gives abhinaya described in the Natya Shastra, naments are not to be used lest the artists much thought and importance to her jew- Bharata Muni’s classical treatise on the per- feel tired or hindered in free movements. ellery: “I choose my jewellery to match the forming arts. It mentions the different types Weighed down with heavy ornaments one costume I’m wearing, but also according of jewellery or ornaments to be worn by a cannot move much and one is likely to to the theme of the performance,” she feel exhausted.” explains. “For example, one of my recent productions, Akhilam Madhuram, is based It is no surprise that many dancers prefer on Krishna and the symbolism of Mathura a minimal use of jewellery. Real jewellery and Vrindavan, and explores the theme of made of pure gold and precious stones is bhakti. I used Rudraksha beads, which are heavy and cumbersome – and exceed- significant for their healing powers, and ingly expensive. “I don’t wear any jewel- matched it with a Tanjore pendant. I like lery when I’m performing contemporary old, traditional pieces and I often come dance,” explains renowned danseuse and up with my own designs. My inspiration choreographer, Aditi Mangaldas. “But I comes from temple sculptures, old Tanjore like to wear jewellery when I’m doing tra- paintings and Ravi Varma paintings.” ditional Kathak. Traditional Kathak jewellery is made of gold, uncut diamonds, emer- In contrast to the opulent temple jewellery alds and rubies. Most of the jewellery I use of South India, the silver jewellery used by is Jadau jewellery which I find in Ahmed- Odissi dancers is elegantly understated. abad, Hyderabad and Lucknow. When I Cuttack in the state of Orissa is famous for wear a beautiful piece of jewellery, it gives its silver filigree work. Oriya tribal jewellery me a sense of grandeur, even if it’s just a is also made of silver. “Odissi jewellery has small piece.” a distinct style,” explains celebrated Odissi Page 10 & 11: Hema Malini displays dancer Sujata Mohapatra. “It adds beauty jewellery worn for her traditional and ballet “I think jewellery adds embellishment to and elegance to the dance. The tahia Bharata Natyam performances a dancer: the tikka frames the face and (crown) is unique to this dance style and bangles bring attention to the wrists be- resembles a temple spire. The bengapa- cause we use a lot of mudras and wrist tia (silver belt) is also unique to Odissi. The movements. I like to keep the look minimal maharis, who had danced in the temples, The surya worn on the but classy. I don’t like heavy, overbearing had worn many necklaces around the right side of the head jewellery. For me, jewellery has to be as neck and several chains around the waist. light as possible but it also has to look real. I The leading gurus had come together and and the chandra on wear only a tikka, earrings and slightly thick decided on the aesthetics of the Odissi bangles on each wrist. I don’t wear long costume and jewellery. It should not be the left, are believed necklaces anymore. I don’t like wearing too heavy. The beauty of the body has to to impart a positive rings or anything on my feet.” be seen.” energy to the dancer, For practical and aesthetic reasons, there Inspiration for the Odissi costume came seems to be a trend among dancers to- from temple sculptures, as well as the Ab- allowing her art to wards reducing the ‘covered from head- hinaya Chandrika, written in the 15th cen- flourish. to-toe’ look to one of minimal elegance tury by Maheswara Mohapatra. This text which responds to the dictat that less mentions the costume, ornaments and is certainly more. Dancers agree that make-up to be used for Odissi and de- dancer, which “if used properly and with jewellery should embellish the dancer scribes a silver belt to be worn around the understanding, add beauty to the body.” but not hamper the dance. After all, as waist. In her biography of Guru Kelucharan It then illustrates in detail the specific or- Bharata Muni cautions in the Natya Mohapatra, The Making of a Guru, Odissi naments to be worn by male and female Shastra: “Decoration not done properly is dancer Ileana Citaristi recounts when the performers. While these number to 16 for no decoration at all.” 14 On Stage June 2011 On Stage Global World Views Israel Opera Festival A look at this most poker faced ones around, as Jarred June 1 – 9 Christmas, Milton Jones, and Mitch Benn, The base of the Masada Mountain, near month’s most exciting among others, all take the stage. If that the Dead Sea, transforms into an epic weren’t enough, visitors even have the op- stage for glorious theatrical productions by peforming arts tion of registering for the Open Mic Night the Israeli Opera this June, for the yearly events from around on June 6, giving them a maximum of Israeli Opera Festival. This year, the Israeli eight minutes to perform on stage. Opera will join hands with Italy’s Arena di the world Verona Orchestra as they take the stage Saskatchewan Children’s Festival at Sultan’s Pool in Jerusalem, to perform June 5 – 8 Verdi’s famous Messa da Requiem. Thou- Since 1988, the Saskatchewan Children’s sands of visitors, both local and interna- Festival has been attracting thousands of tional, will get the opportunity to witness visitors as it aims at involving children in ar- acclaimed Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli tistic and creative endeavours, expanding performing. The Israel Symphony Orches- their horizons and promoting the perform- tra Rishon LeZion will also be presenting ing arts. For this year’s edition, puppetry a rendition of Aida with the Israeli Opera, has been singled out as the primary per- and other highlights include the Jerusalem forming art, so the festival will showcase Symphony Orchestra accompanying the this art form in full vigour as performers Opera for Verdi’s Jerusalem. from across the world – including Australia, Mexico, West Africa, and the US – will take Auckland Festival of Photography the stage to enthrall kids and adults alike. June 3 – 26 Also featured, aside from puppetry, are The trauma and suffering experienced by theatre performances, dance, storytelling, New Zealand over the past year serves as circus acts, as well as music. inspiration for this year’s Auckland Festival of Photography, as the artists and man- Glastonbury Festival of agement look to channelise the misery Contemporary Performing Arts towards a positive outcome through art. June 24 – 26 Themes interpreted by the artists include This June will see thousands of hippies and Culture, Identity, Participation, and Art. music lovers flock to Glastonbury for the Displays include works by international annual Glastonbury festival, one of the photographers as well as established and most distinguished and easily recognised emerging artists from New Zealand for a music festivals in the world. This year’s edi- collection of exquisite images from across tion is set to feature hundreds of prominent the world. Highlights for this year include artistes from across the world, playing on works of the upcoming photographer Ro- several different stages. The headliners for berta Thornley, which will be displayed for the three days are U2, Coldplay and Be- the first time at the festival, having been yonce respectively. While close to 200,000 commissioned by the management itself. unkempt fans let loose in vast open fields could well be a recipe for an environmen- Guernsey Festival of Comedy tal disaster, the Glastonbury management June 3 – 11 remains keen on organising a ‘green’ fes- A few laughs will always go a long way in tival with several provisions available, such cheering up the most miserable state of as solar panels, green tractors and the mind. And what better way to wish your presence of the Green Police. In fact, last woes away than nine days of incessant, year, half of all waste generated at the fes- roll-on-the-floor comedy? The Guernsey Israel Opera Festival, Glastonbury tival was recycled, and the management Festival returns in its fifth year, with a line-up Festival, Saskatchewan Children’s Festival, is aiming at increasing the number to 60 promising to knock the socks off even the Auckland Festival of Photography per cent this year. 15 On Stage June 2011 Programme guide

Adhe Adhure Hindi play (120 mins) icons) so gripping, is that one is Experimental Theatre never sure whether he admires Wednesday, 1st to Sunday, 5th her rage to get a grip on her life, – 7.30 pm or whether he suggests that she is a woman caught in her own An Artistic Exclusive Event destiny and circumstances in the manner of a tragic Greek heroine. A tragic comedy about mar- Starring: Rajendra Gupta, Lillete riage, this brilliant classic that broke Dubey, Ira Dubey, Rajeev Sid- the bounds of Hindi theatre in the dhartha and Anuschka Sawhney ‘60s, remains an incisive portrayal,

even today, of contemporary so- Original music by Gandhaar ciety and a middle class family on Sangoram the brink of collapse. Sets designed by Bhola Sharma Lights designed by Pradeep Savitri, a middle-aged woman, is Vaidya dissatisfied with her circumstanc- es – an unemployed son, an un- A Primetime Theatre Co. settled newly married daughter, a Production rebellious teenager, and above all, a husband who has failed to themes of incompleteness at the indi- Tickets (on weekdays): `300, 250 & provide her emotional and financial vidual and social level with humour and 200/- security. She seeks to fulfill herself in re- uncanny insight. Tickets (on weekends): `400, 300 & lationships outside marriage, only to re- 200/- alise that men are the same beneath What makes Mohan Rakesh’s portrait of Box Office: May 26 for Members and May different faces. The play explores the Savitri (one of Hindi theatre’s first feminist 29 for the Public

The Sound of Music Workshop Children’s theatre workshop this much-loved musical. This will encour- Sea View Room age children to engage with the songs Wednesday, 1st to Sunday, 5th – and story of a young postulant and her 11.00 am to 1.00 pm love for music.

Through this workshop, children will dis- As one of the best acting academies in cover themselves through improvisations, Mumbai, Raëll Padamsee’s Academy for climb out of their shells through theatre Creative Expression (ACE) for children be- games, stretch their vocal cords through tween four and twelve years of age, has song and perform like never before, been committed to developing children’s through acting. acting skills for over 15 years. ACE uses in- After the immensely successful The Sound novative techniques in developing their of Music presented at the NCPA this year, Registration Fees: `3,000/- per child. Please speaking skills, creative thinking, self-es- parents expressed a strong desire to have contact Ace Productions on 2284 2845 – 8 or teem, confidence and social interaction. their children attend a workshop based on Email: [email protected]

Dance BOX OFFICE Exhibitions – Art, Photography Tel: +91 (0)22 2282 4567, 6654 8135, 6622 3724 Film Screenings Indian Music National Centre for the Performing Arts, N.C.P.A. Marg, Nariman Point, Theatre Mumbai 400 021. Tel: +91 (0)22 6622 3737 Presentations & Discussions www.ncpamumbai.com www.soimumbai.in International Music 16 On Stage June 2011

Japan Tsunami Benefit Concert

Western music concert Nicolai von Wilm – String Nonet, Op.150 Symphony Orchestra of India Tata Theatre Ryunosuke Akutagawa Thursday, 2nd – 7.00 pm Interval An NCPA Presentation W.A. Mozart – Symphony No. 29 This benefit concert will be held for the Allegro moderato relief of victims of the devastating earth- Andante quake and tsunami that struck the north- Menuetto: Allegretto east coast of Japan on March 11 this Allegro con spirito year. Proceeds will go to the Indian Red Cross Society. There will also be an op- Edward Elgar – Serenade for strings portunity to make additional donations. Allegro piacevole Larghetto Programme: Allegretto

Karl Jenkins – Passacaglia from Palladio Dag Wiren-- Serenade for Strings Op 11 Edward Elgar – Salut D’Amour Tickets: `1000, 800 & 600/- Henryk Wieniawski – Valse caprice (piano) Box Office: May 14 for SOI Members, David Popper – Requiem for three cellos May 17 for NCPA Members and May 20 and piano for the Public. Two English Girls French film with English subtitles he gradually falls in love with Muriel. But (Col – 108 mins – 1971) both families lay down a one-year-long Dance Theatre Godrej separation without any contact before Friday, 3rd – 6.30 pm agreeing to the marriage. So Claude goes back to Paris where he has many In collaboration with Taj Enlighten love affairs before sending Muriel a break- Film Society off letter.

Truffaut's classic adaptation of the novel Directed by Francois Truffaut of the same name by Henri Pierre Roche Cast: Jean-Pierre Léaud, Kika Markham is set in early 20th century France. Claude and Stacey Tendeter Roc, a young middle-class Frenchman, meets in Paris Ann Brown, a young Eng- lishwoman. They become friends and and her sister Muriel, for whom she intends Admission on a first-come-first-served basis Ann invites him to spend the holidays at Claude. During these holidays, Claude, (NCPA and Taj Enlighten Film Society the house where she lives with her mother Ann and Muriel become very close and members will get preferential seating) Rainsong Hindustani music recital Janhavi Phansalkar (Vocal) Kaushik Mukherjee (Sarod) NCPA Umang Series Little Theatre Friday, 3rd – 6.30 pm

Supported by Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation

Janhavi Phansalkar trained under Dr. Kaushik Mukherjee has trained under Dilip Both artistes will include in their presenta- Usha Parkhi and Veena Sahasrabuddhe, Patra and Tejendra Narayan Majumdar. tion, a special repertoire to welcome the both of whom rank among the most dis- He has won the National Scholarship for much-awaited rains. tinguished and talented artistes of India. Outstanding Artists and has also per- She has many public performances and formed at a number of prestigious music Admission on a first-come-first-served basis awards to her credit. festivals. (NCPA members will get preferential seating) 17 On Stage June 2011 Apples and Walnuts English play (80 mins) a mantra of how to bring about change Dance Theatre Godrej during troubled times. Saturday, 4th – 5.00 pm and 7.30 pm An Artistic Exclusive Event Written and directed by Troy Ribeiro Cast: Madhuri Bhatia, Ashish Chawla, This play, set in Mumbai with a backdrop Mini Ribeiro and Akshay Dogra of Kashmir, portrays the catharsis of two mothers who have lost their sons to a A Litmus production meaningless war.

Through the four characters, Apples and Tickets: `200/- (for Members) Walnuts encapsulates the state of af- `225/- (for the Public) fairs in Kashmir and how it has changed Box Office: May 26 for Members and their lives. It ends on a positive note with May 29 for the Public

Dinner with Friends English play (105 mins) Production design and costumes: Tata Theatre Sonya Khan Sunday, 5th – 7.00 pm Music composer: Piyush Kanojia Cast: Tisca Chopra, Vinay Jain, An Artistic Exclusive Event Joy Sengupta and Perizaad Zorabian Irani This Pulitzer Prize-winning play is about four friends: two married couples. Both couples A Moving Platform Production are at different stages of their lives. We wit- ness the effects of the break-up of one STRICTLY FOR ADULTS ONLY couple on the other, who first feel com- pelled to choose sides, and then begin to Tickets: `1,000, 750, 500, 300 & 200/- question the strength of their own seem- Written by Donald Marguiles Box Office: May 26 for Members and ingly tranquil marriage. Directed by Feroz Khan the Public

Korat Gujarati play (135 mins) now awaits death just like his father rule rather than the exception, the mis- Dance Theatre Godrej did and watches the gallows’ structure use of euthanasia is very likely, since we Sunday, 5th – 7.00 pm through the hopeless window. have a large number of illiterate popu- lace and rampant unethical medical An Artistic Exclusive Event So how do we exactly define a murder? practitioners. But can this helplessness It can’t just be the act of taking another and corruption of our existence deny us Korat, that’s the way he pronounced individual’s life. There should be certain a life devoid of pain? the word "court". His inability for the cor- peculiarities of the act that deems it a rect pronunciation for the law house murder. Euthanasia can never be com- The play is a hope to have the above matched his scepticism for what was pared with a murder. No one wants to questions echo in the huge rooms going on there…in the court! suffer, no one wants to feel pain and of ‘Korat’. misery, and no one wants to see their What the law labels as a brutal murder, loved ones suffering. On the contrary, we Written by Dr. Shankar Sesh for him was just a rational way to end dedicate our lives just to be away from Gujarati Adaptation by Paresh Vora an individual’s agony. He had killed his it, all of our efforts are directed only to Directed by Pritesh Sodha father, rather a patient of carcinoma of relieve ourselves of any sort of pain and Produced by Kamlesh Mota lungs in his last stage pleading for death end the suffering of our loved ones. Cast: Pratik Gandhi, Mihir Trivedi and every day. His poor house awaited the Paresh Vora uninvited guest by the name of death, The arguers will want one to consider the which was already on its way. mental makeup of our country, and will A Utopia Communications Production quote that acceptance of euthanasia Poverty and the label of being an anti- for people who are tired of life, will further Tickets: `225/- (for Members) social element from the society is what put a social and domestic pressure on he got with the grief of his family for the those who feel themselves to be a bur- `250/- (for the Public) so called murder of his father. Locked den to others, and to ask for euthanasia. Box Office: May 26 for Members and behind those rigid iron bars of law, he In India, where abuse of the law is the May 29 for the Public 18 On Stage June 2011 events at a glance Day Date Time Programme Theatre

Adhe Adhure Wed. to Sun. 1st to 5th 7.30 pm Hindi Play

The Sound of Music Wed. to Sun. 1st to 5th 11.00 am to 1.00 pm Sea View Room Children’s theatre workshop

Japan Tsunami Benefit Concert Thu. 2nd 7.00 pm Western music concert by the SOI

Two English Girls Fri. 3rd 6.30 pm French film with English subtitles

Rainsong Fri. 3rd 6.30 pm Hindustani music recital

Apples & Walnuts Sat. 4th 5.00 pm and 7.30 pm English Play

Dinner with Friends Sun. 5th 7.00 pm English play

Korat Sun. 5th 7.00 pm Gujarati play

Tree’ppreciation! Sun. to Tue. 5th to 14th 12.00 pm to 8.00 pm Photo exhibition by Sham Manchekar

The King in Cinemascope Mon. to Wed. 6th to 8th 6.30 pm Film screenings

Casa de Goa’s Ekvat Group from Portugal Thu. 9th 7.00 pm Traditional Goan music and dance

Thu. 9th 6.30 pm Rain Raga by Subhra Guha

Ambaa - The Feminine Force Thu. 9th 7.00 pm Odissi duet by Leesa Mohanty and Leena Mohanty

Nilesh Singha Fri. 10th 6.30 pm Bharata Natyam recital

NCPA Legends - A Tribute to the King of Rock 'n' Roll by Sat. 11th 7.00 pm Gary Lawyer Western music concert

Sat. 11th 7.30 pm Famous Last Words Sun. 12th 4.00 pm and 7.30 pm English play

Chhandam - A Journey Sat. 11th 7.00 pm Kathak recital by Seema Mehta

Tumhari Amrita Sun. 12th 7.00 pm Hindi Play June 2011

Dance Exhibitions – Art, Photography Film Screenings Indian Music Theatre Presentations & Discussions International Music

Day Date Time Programme Theatre

Devi Thu. 16th 7.00 pm Bharata Natyam recital by Priya Venkataraman

Fri., Sat. and 17th, 18th 7.00 pm The Class Act Sun. and 19th 4.00 pm and 7.00 pm English play

Fri. and Sat. 17th and 18th 7.00 pm Frankenstein Sun. 19th 4.00 pm and 7.00 pm Theatre broadcast

Khargosh Fri 17th 6.30 pm Hindi Film

Kalpana Sat. 18th 6.30 pm Short film screenings

Little Leaders Sat. 18th 10.00 am to 2.00 pm Sea View Room Children’s theatre workshop

History of India: VIRitten Sun. 19th 6.30 pm Stand-up comedy in English

The Child Prodigy Wed. 22nd 8.30 pm French film with English subtitles

Thu to Sat. 23rd to 25th 7.30 pm The Sound of Music Sun. 26th 4.00 pm and 7.30 pm English musical

Nad Ninad Fri. 24th 6.30 pm Guided Listening session on Shobha Gurtu

Bed and Board Fri. 24th 6.30 pm French film with English subtitles

Sat. 25th 7.00 pm Miss Beautiful Sun. 26th 6.30 pm Hindi play

Past Forward Sat. and Sun. 25th and 26th 7.00 pm English plays

The Dualities of Liszt - Saint or Sinner? Tue. 28th 7.00 pm A lecture-recital by Karl Lutchmayer

Pant on Fire Wed. 29.6.2011 7.30 pm Stand-up comedy

Vision of Forever Thu. 30.6.2011 7.00 pm Odissi recital by Ramli Ibrahim and troupe 20 On Stage June 2011

‘Tree’ppreciation! Photo-exhibition by Sham Manchekar tree in India – located in the botanical Piramal Art Gallery garden at Kolkata. These photographs are Sunday, 5th to Tuesday, 14th -- 12.00 pm not about scientific shooting, but rather to 8.00 pm the revelation of beauty. He appreciates

Tree’ppreciation, the forthcoming exhibi- the aesthetics of a tree through his lens. tion of internationally renowned photog- rapher Sham Manchekar, is a celebration The exhibition is not the first of its kind to of the beauty of trees around us. The tree, be organised. Manchekar has many to which is an integral part of our life, is often his credit, such as Moss-scapes, Ladakhs- neglected by mankind. Manchekar takes capes, Land and Water and Auto-graphs. us through different places and sights, such as the branching of a coconut tree His love for the abstract is clear in his on the Sindhudurg Fort, to the oldest ficus latest exhibition.

The King in Cinemascope Film screenings scenes footage finds Elvis at the peak of Little Theatre his powers. The highlights: Elvis’ first TV ap- Monday, 6th to Wednesday, pearances in 1956, scenes from his most 8th – 7.00 pm popular movies, Love Me Tender, Loving You and Jailhouse Rock, plus concert June 6 scenes from his 1968 show, That's the The King At The Movies – Jailhouse Rock way it is, Aloha from Hawaii, and from his last filmed show in 1977 are here as well. Filmed in black-and-white, it’s the first Fans get to see him perform live all the movie that comes to mind when “Elvis” essential hits – from the early rock ‘n’ roll and “movies” are mentioned in the same (Hound Dog, Don’t Be Cruel) to the bal- sentence. Elvis plays bad boy Vince Ev- lads (Love Me Tender, Can’t Help Falling erett who’s in jail and turns his life over In Love) to his personal favourites (Heart- to become a rock ‘n’ roll superstar. This break Hotel, Blue Suede Shoes). insight that only his family can bring. His 1957 flick became one of the most suc- career ups and downs, his kindness and cessful films of The King’s career – thanks June 8 generosity and his human frailties are all to classic songs like Jailhouse Rock, Treat The King Revealed! – Elvis By The brought to light as well as a reflection on Me Nice and (You’re So Square) Baby I Presleys his place in entertainment history and his Don’t Care. enduring legacy as the world’s greatest For the first time, The King’s wife Priscilla entertainer. June 7 and daughter Lisa Marie offer an inti-

The King In Concert – This Is Elvis mate look at Elvis’ life in this riveting doc- umentary. Different aspects of Elvis’s life, Admission on a first-come-first-served basis Fantastic and dazzling – this biography including his tours, his time in Hollywood (NCPA members will get concert movie and rare behind-the- and his home life, are depicted with the preferential seating)

Casa de Goa’s Ekvat Group from Portugal Traditional Goan music and dances around one hour, with traditional harvest Tata Theatre dances, Deknnis and Mandos and also Thursday, 9th – 7.00 pm songs and dances of Ekvat´s own creation In collaboration with Indian Council for Cultural Relations inspired on the traditional ones. A Bharata Natyam dance is also included, from whi- Casa de Goa’s Ekvat Group of Traditional Goan Music and Dances founded in 1989, ch some of the Goan dances originated. in Lisbon (Portugal), has the objective of making the traditional music and dances of Goa known to a wider audience. A limited number of admission passes can be collected by Members from the Box Office In the concert tour to be held in India in Mumbai and New Delhi, Ekvat will be pre- June 2011, covering Goa, Bengaluru, senting in each concert a programme of from June 6 onwards. 21 On Stage June 2011

Rain Raga Hindustani vocal music recital and especially her thumri renditions in Subhra Guha the Poorab Ang. Dance Theatre Godrej Thursday, 9th – 6.30 pm The Benares Poorab Ang style she follows is that of Siddheshwari Devi, Ra- In collaboration with ITC-Sangeet soolan Bai, Badi Motibai and Girija Devi. Research Academy (Western Region) Her collection of rare thumris, dadras, kajris and chaitis in pure Benares tradition Subhra Guha is regarded as one of the is impressive, as is her exhaustive collec- finest female exponents of the Agra gha- tion of rare ragas and compositions. rana. Hailing from a music loving family, she received her early training from the A regular artiste on AIR and Doordarshan, Late Satish Bhowmick and subsequently Guha has been performing regularly at trained under Pandit Sunil Bose, a vet- prestigious events and festivals both in eran of the Agra gharana. India and abroad.

Today, Guha has gained recognition Admission on a first-come-first-served basis for her exemplary gayaki with her open- (NCPA Members will get throated akar, her taans, her bol-bants preferential seating)

Ambaa – The Feminine Force Odissi Duet Programme: Leena and Leesa Mohanty Mangalacharan – An invocation to Little Theatre Goddess Kali Thursday, 9th – 7.00 p.m. Mangalacharan is an invocatory item paying salutations to a diety and finally The Mohanty sisters, Leena and Leesa, concluding with three salutations – to the are internationally acclaimed artistes Mother Earth, to the Guru and to the au- and disciples of the late Deba Prasad gust audience. Das and Durga Charan Ranbir. Together, they run Bansi Bilas, an NGO dedicated Pallavi – Raag Basanta to the development and dissemination of “Pallavi” means “blossoming”. It begins Oriya Culture. with a slow pace and gradually gains Leena, the Artistic Director of Bansi Bilas, is momentum. Based on raag Kedar Ka- a dancer with an impeccable command modi, this is a pure dance piece that ex- of technique; her greatest asset is her joy plores the softer side of Shakti. It gives us which she transmits to her art. A versatile a glimpse of the secular and sacred im- dancer with a vision, she is known for the ages of the female energy. graceful intricacy of her gestures and eloquent expressions. Leesa is a multi- Abhinaya – Bibasaa Kunti faceted personality. She has worked as an This piece captures the state of mind of called the Divine Mother. The Mahavidyas actor and a dancer, and today juggles Kunti, widely known for her beauty and dy- her time as a choreographer, a manage- namism. Saint Durbasa, pleased with her reveal a tantric world that is different, ment consultant, a writer and an entrepre- devotion, blessed her with the boon that awakening in us the understanding of the neur. She is known for her footwork of clar- she could invoke any god and would be world as it really is. The Dasa Mahavidya ity and precision. blessed with his child. are Kali, Tara, Sodashi, Bhuvaneswari, Bhairavi, Chhinnamasta, Dhumavati, Ba- On seeing the Sun God, Kunti is attracted gala, Maatangi and Kamala. to him, invokes him and conceives Karna. The virgin mother, afraid of society, wants Moksha to hide the child and secretly sets him This is a pure dance, one of joyful release, afloat in the Ganges. with a verse dedicated to Shakti, the fe- male creative energy. Abhinaya – Dasa Mahavidya Admission on a first-come-first-served basis Dasa Mahavidya are the ten forms of the (NCPA Members will get primordial creative female energy, also preferential seating) 22 On Stage June 2011 Nilesh Singha Bharata Natyam recital also been titled Nritya Shivali by the Shivali Horizon Series Cultural Society of India. Little Theatre Friday, 10th – 6.30 pm He is the recipient of the SRI Saurabha award for his outstanding contribution in In collaboration with the Indian Council the field of art and culture. He has present- for Cultural Relations ed several duets as well as group perfor- mances at festivals like Natyanjali, Maha Nilesh Singha, an accomplished Bharata Shivaratri Mahotsav, Shri Durga Parmesh- Natyam dancer from Mumbai, has been wari music and dance festival at Kateel, currently undergoing advance training in Mangalore. He has also produced several dance and also studying the intricacies of dance ballets like KrishnaLeela, Dashava- Nattuvangam under Padmini Radhakrish- is also the recipient of the Vishnu Digam- taram, Ramayanam, etc. nan. He has been awarded the National bar Paluskar award, for the best dancer Cultural Scholarship by the Government of by Sharda Sangeet Vidyalaya. He is an Admission on a first-come-first-served basis India in the field of Bharata Natyam and empanelled artiste of the I.C.C.R. He has (NCPA members will get preferential seating)

NCPA Legends - A Tribute to the King of Rock 'n' Roll by Gary Lawyer

Western music concert lar music. A bass baritone, who sings NCPA Legends – A tribute to the king just as easily in the tenor range, Gary is of rock ‘n’ roll by Gary Lawyer equally comfortable across Western mu- Tata Theatre sic genres – be it rock, pop, jazz, country Saturday, 11th – 7.00 p.m. or folk.

In collaboration with the Bombay So- With his varied musical influences and ciety for the Prevention of Cruelty to classically trained voice, Gary began Animals (BSPCA) and supported by Tata his singing career in New York in the 80's, Sons Limited and is now one of India's finest musi- cians. Gary Lawyer needs no introduction. Tickets: `1000, 750 & 550/- Often called the ‘man with the golden voice’, he is regarded as the finest In- Box office: May 26 for Members and May dian artiste in the field of Western popu- 29 for the Public

Famous Last Words English play (105 mins) Anil Shah is a critically acclaimed writer. they care about him might just be the Experimental Theatre The problem is, he hasn’t written a word ones who lead him to his doom. Which Saturday, 11th – 7.30 pm and Sunday, in five years. Instead, living off his fading leaves him wondering just who will be the 12th – 4.00 pm and 7.30 pm fame, he’s cutting a swathe through so- one to stab him in the back? Literally. ciety with a glass in one hand and a girl on each arm. Faced with an unexpect- Written by Anish Trivedi ed turn of events, he finds his only help Story and direction by Dipika Roy comes from his ex-wife, Sandy. But the Cast: Anish Trivedi, Sahil Jaffrey, Amrita help comes with a catch: to clean up his Puri/ Nandita Dubey and Dipika Roy act and finish the novel he promised his

publishers five years ago. A Banyan Tree Production Shah does write, finding along the way An Artistic Exclusive Event that it’s true about the path to hell, since Tickets: `300, 250 & 200/- A new comedy from the creators of Still he’s unlikely to go to heaven, being paved Box Office: May 26 for Members and Single and One Small Day with good intentions. The people who say the Public 23 On Stage June 2011 Chhandam – A Journey Kathak recital she continues her training, she has also dancer will be singing a rhythmic cycle of Seema Mehta opened a Chhandam branch in Mumbai. seven beats; taal roopak, and perform- NCPA Umang series ing various tihaais and chhands with her Little Theatre Programme: feet. In this traditional Kathak solo, Mehta Saturday, 11th – 7.00 pm Seema Mehta is intrigued with the phi- will share her journey as a kathaka and losophy behind Sanatana Dharma. She her experience in developing the four ele- Supported by the Narotam Sekhsaria shares, through her dance, the idea that ments; tayaari, layakaari, khoobsoorti and beauty is not found in destinations, but it Foundation nazakat. lies in the journey itself. In Kathak, the jour- A student of Chitresh Das of the Chhan- ney of playing with rhythm is eternal. Her dam School of Kathak, Seema Mehta has guru, Chitresh Das’ unique innovation of Admission on a first-come-first-served basis trained intensively for eleven years. While Kathak yoga will be featured, where the (NCPA members will get preferential seating)

Tumhari Amrita Hindi play (90 mins) Written by Javed Siddiqui Tata Theatre Directed by Feroz Khan Sunday, 12th – 7.00 pm Cast: Shabana Azmi and Farooque Shaikh Inspired by A. R. Gurney’s English play, Love A Platform Production Letters, Tumhari Amrita is a funny, poignant, melancholic chronicle of two people would not come together and could not FOR ADULTS ONLY stay apart. Tickets: `750, 570, 375, 300, 240 & Theatre veterans Shabana Azmi and Fa- rooque Shaikh read the love letters written 150/- (for Members) by their characters to each other, over a `1,000, 760, 500, 320 & 200/- span of 35 years. The two thespians man- (for the Public) age, with consummate ease, to convey friendship, love and heartbreak with mere Box Office: May 26 for Members and inflections of voice, tone and expression. May 29 for the Public

Devi Bharata Natyam performance her contribution to the field of dance. Priya Venkataraman For her upcoming performance, Devi, Experimental Theatre Venkataraman has specially choreo- Thursday, 16th – 7.00 pm graphed selected verses from the Ananda Lahiri by Adishankara, which is Priya Venkataraman, currently training in praise of Shakti, the consort of Shiva. with A. Lakshman and Bragha Bassell She will commence the evening’s recital of Chennai, has intensively trained in with an invocatory item followed by a Bharata Natyam from the age of five Swarajati which is the central piece of and has been performing for the last two her performance. Selected verses from decades. While based in Illinois, she trav- the Kumarasambhavam by Kalidasa to elled all over the United States and per- highlight the Shiva and Shakti elements, formed and was also actively engaged are also part of her repertoire this eve- in teaching students and training them in ning. The performance will conclude with the Bharata Natyam Margam repertoire. a thillana composed by Karaikudi Krish- Now settled in Delhi, she continues to namurthy in raga Nalinakanti. perform, choreograph, teach and takes time out to travel to Chennai for her own Tickets: `180 & 90/- (for Members) training. She has performed at many `200 & 100/- (for the Public) prestigious venues all over the world and Box Office: May 26 for Members and May has won several coveted accolades for 29 for the Public 24 On Stage June 2011 The Class Act English play (110 mins) herzad Patel, Danesh Khambata, Lucky Experimental Theatre Vakharia and Max Fernandes Friday, 17th and Saturday, 18th- 7.00 pm and Sunday, 19th – 4.00 and 7.00 pm A Silly Point Production

This play is based in an acting class Tickets (on weekdays): `225, 180 & 150/- conducted by Mr William. The students (for Members) come from different religious, caste `250, 200 & 150/- (for the Public) and class backgrounds and have con- Tickets (on weekends): `270, 225 & 200/- flicting views on almost everything. (for Members) Through these “actors”, the play hopes to Original Script Written by Meherzad Patel `300, 250 & 200/- (for the Public) depict the pitiful situation of how we still Directed by Meherzad Patel Box Office: June 9 for Members and June 12 don't know how to co-exist peacefully. Cast: Sajeel Parakh, Danesh Irani, Me- for the Public

Frankenstein Theatre Broadcast (120 mins) mines to track down his creator and strike Directed by Danny Boyle Dance Theatre Godrej a terrifying deal. Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Jonny Friday, 17th and Saturday, 18th Lee Miller and others

– 7.00 pm Urgent concerns of scientific responsibil- Sunday, 19th – 4.00 and 7.00 pm Suitable only for 15 years and above ity, parental neglect, cognitive develop-

ment and the nature of good and evil For the first time in India, National Tickets: `300/- are embedded within this thrilling and Theatre Live will broadcast the perfor- Box Office: June 9 for Members and June mance of the production Frankenstein deeply disturbing classic Gothic tale. 12 for the Public at the NCPA. Written by Nick Dear and based on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, the play is directed by Oscar-winner Danny Boyle (127 Hours, Slumdog Mil- lionaire) and is a visionary new produc- tion, with actors Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller alternating the roles of Victor Frankenstein and the grotesque being he creates.

Childlike in his innocence but monstrous in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered crea- ture is cast out into a hostile universe by his maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the friendless creature, increas- ingly desperate and vengeful, deter-

Khargosh Hindi film - Fresh Pix Series An NCPA Presentation this new routine is for Avneesh to catch a (Col – 90 mins – 2009) glimpse of a girl, he is dismayed. Bantu Little Theatre This film screening is a part of the NCPA plays cupid for Avneesh and Mrityu but Friday, 17th – 6.30 pm Fresh Pix Series, started to create an soon tires of the candy that Mrityu rewards audience for regional and indie cinema him with. Something strange is afoot; he that does not reach the lay audience, begins to frequent the forest trying to out- outside of film festivals. wit an unforeseen pursuer.

In a listless town, ten-year-old Bantu goes Directed by Paresh Kamdar through the routine of cajoling his friend, Cast: Arhan Wilson, Gauri, Sumit Avneesh to fly a kite with him. Instead, Sharma, Garima Shrivastav and Avneesh takes him to the bazaar where Chittaranjan Giri they sit day after day. While Bantu savours ice candy, Avneesh restlessly awaits his Admission on a first-come-first-served basis ‘mrityu’ (death). When Bantu realises that (NCPA members will get preferential seating) 25 On Stage June 2011 Kalpana Short film screening (120 mins) to provide exposure to short and small screen little-known movies to a wider audi- Little Theatre budget filmmakers. ence and initiate constructive discussions. Saturday, 18th – 6.30 pm Everyone is invited irrespective of whether Many of us might have dreamt of making In collaboration with Friends of Cinema a movie that would force the world stand you are a filmmaker or not. All you require up and take notice. Few of us went one is a zest for cinema. Friends of Cinema (FoC) is a network of step ahead and made it but due to sev- people who like and love short and small eral constraints could not show it to an au- budget cinema. Kalpana, the brain- dience. Kalpana, is for these filmmakers. Admission on a first-come-first-served basis child of Friends of Cinema is a venture The objective of the group is simple – to (NCPA Members will get preferential seating) Little Leaders Children’s theatre workshop leaders. Drawing on examples from fa- Children from 6-12 years of age are eligible for Sea View Room mous personalities like Gautam Buddha, participation. Saturday, 18th – 10.00 am to 2.00 pm Kabir, the Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa, Registration Fees: `2,500/- per child Mahatma Gandhi, Dr Ambedkar, Nelson As existing structures of leadership come Mandela, Rabindranath Tagore, William (inclusive of lunch and materials) tumbling down around the world, and new Shakespeare, Helen Keller, Joan of Arc Entry on Registration. Please contact Shivani systems are set up in their place, the world and Anne Frank among others, the work- Tibrewala on 98201 27247 / 93202 91157 is redefining what it needs, wants and ex- shop will introduce children to the chal- Or e mail: [email protected]. For pects in a leader. This workshop seeks to lenges of being leaders in all contexts, imbibe lasting leadership values in chil- through a series of role-play and various online registrations, log onto http://www. dren that will mould them into tomorrow’s theatre games. nolicenseyet.com History of India: VIRitten Stand-up comedy in English (105 mins) with impeccable comic timing, makes for Tata Theatre a hilarious evening that warms your heart Sunday, 19th – 6.30 pm as it gently pulls your leg.

Ashvin Gidwani’s History of India promises Directed by Vir Das to be the funniest, wittiest and most sen- Cast: Vir Das and Kavi Shastri sational relook at India’s history. History is An Ashvin Gidwani Production hugely funny; we just haven’t read it right. ` But this history so twisted, so funny, so out- Tickets: 1,125, 750, 570, 375 & 225/- of-the-box, so completely unbelievable, (for Members) you can’t be sure it actually happened. `1,500, 1000, 760, 500 & 300/- (for the Public) This delightful mix of fact, fiction, humour Box Office: June 9 for Members and June 12 and some good old patriotism, delivered for the Public The Child Prodigy French film with English subtitles by Academy Award-winning produc- Admission starts at 8.15 pm on a first-come- (Col – 99 mins – 2010) ers, Denise Robert and Daniel Louis. first-served basis. Experimental Theatre (NCPA members and Consulate invitees will Wednesday, 22nd – 8:30 pm Young hands fly rapidly over a keyboard get preferential seating) creating hauntingly beautiful melodies. In collaboration with Bureau du Québec These hands belong to six-year-old Andre (Québec Office), Mumbai Mathieu who won his audiences and fired up concert halls in London, New York, Paris Marking the occasion of the Fête Na- and around the world. Adulated, hailed, tionale du Québec (Québec National praised, the child prodigy seemed to Day), The Child Prodigy (L’Enfant Prodige), is one of Québec’s most celebrated have every ingredient to succeed. But an- movies, based on the passionate and other destiny was awaiting him. tragic life and career of composer An- dré Mathieu, who has been described Directed by Luc Dionne as the little Mozart of the 20th century. Cast: Patrick Drolet, Marc Labreche, The movie is based on his fantastic origi- Macha Grenon, Karine Vanasse, Guil- nal music compositions and is produced laume Lebon and Lothaire Bluteau 26 On Stage June 2011 The Sound of Music English musical mainstream schools, Raell Padamsee’s Choreography: Karla Singh and Sandeep Tata Theatre Academy for Creative Expression (ACE) Soparrkar Thursday, 23rd to Saturday, 25th – 7.30 and eight NGO’s: Happy Home and Set Design: Fali Unwalla pm and Sunday, 26th – 4.00 p.m. and School for the Blind, Central Society for Vocals Director: Marianne D’Cruz Aiman the Education of the Deaf, Society for 7.30 pm the Education of the Crippled, Asee- An Ace Production in aid of THE CREATE An Artistic Exclusive Event ma, Salaam Bombay Foundation, Seva Sadan, Muktangan and ADAPT. Foundation The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become Producer: Raell Padamsee Tickets: `1,000, 760, 500 & 260/- the world’s most beloved musical. When a Technical Director: Alyque Padamsee Children below the age of 3 not permitted. Director: Advait Hazarat postulant proves too high-spirited for the Box Office: June 9 for Members and June12 religious life, she is dispatched to serve Associate Director: Karla Singh as governess for the seven children of a Music Director: Merlyn D’Souza for the Public widowed naval captain. Her growing rap- port with the youngsters, coupled with her generosity of spirit, gradually captures the heart of the stern captain, and they marry. Upon returning from their honeymoon they discover that Austria has been invaded by the Nazis, who demand the captain’s im- mediate service in the navy.

The family’s narrow escape over the mountains to Switzerland on the eve of World War II provides one of the most thrill- ing and inspirational finales ever present- ed in theatre.

Starring: Dalip Tahil, Delna Mody, Lucky Morani, Darius Shroff, Marianne D’Cruz Aiman and an integrated cast of children from

Nad Ninad: From Our Archives Guided Listening Session on Shobha Gurtu Dance Theatre Godrej Friday, 24th – 6.30 pm

In collaboration with the Indian Musicological Society

This is a programme that makes available to lovers of Hin- dustani classical music, some of NCPA's archival record- ings. This month, it's the music of the late Thumri Queen Shobha Gurtu.

With equal command over pure classical and light classical idiom, Shobha Gurtu created a new style of rendering semi classical forms such as thumri, dadra, kajri and hori. Influenced by the music of stalwarts like Begum Akhtar and Bade Ghulam Ali, she created a niche for herself with her full-throated effortless renditions in abhinaya ang.

This audio-visual session will be conducted by Tushar Bha- tia, a senior disciple of Arvind Parikh, Dinkar Kaikini and Y. M. Mahale. The session will also include live demonstrations by Sraboni Chaudhuri and Aditi Bannerjee, senior disciples of Shobha Gurtu.

Admission on a first-come-first-served basis. (NCPA members will get preferential seating) 27 On Stage June 2011 Bed and Board French film with English subtitles In collaboration with Taj Enlighten meeting, he meets a beautiful Japanese (Col -100 mins -1970) Film Society woman named Kyoko (Mademoiselle Hi- Little Theatre roko) and they have an affair. When Chris- Friday, 24th – 6.30 pm The fourth part of Truffaut’s Antoine Doinel tine accidentally discovers that Antoine has a lover, they separate. Once sepa- cycle is a curious entry in Truffaut’s oeuvre and a masterful study of Doinel’s entry into rated, they begin to miss each other and adulthood. Antoine Doinel (Jean-Pierre realise that their love still exists. Léaud in one of his best performances) and Christine Darbon (Claude Jade) are Directed by Francois Truffaut married and Antoine dyes flowers for a liv- Cast: Jean-Pierre Léaud, Claude Jade and Hiroko Berghauer ing, while Christine is pregnant and gives

private violin classes. With Christine in the family way, Antoine decides to find a new Admission on a first-come-first-served basis job, and he succeeds due to his em- (NCPA and Taj Enlighten Film Society ployer's misunderstanding. In a business members will get preferential seating) Miss Beautiful Hindi Play (135 mins) Directed by Makrand Deshpande Experimental Theatre Saturday, 25th - 7.00 pm, Cast: Nagesh Bhosle, Divya Jagdale, Sunday, 26th - 6.30 pm Makrand Deshpande, Ahlam Khan, San- jay Dadhich, Ananda Karak and Vineet An ailing mother and father ask their son Sharma. to find himself a beautiful girl. The son, wanting his parents to die peacefully, brings home Miss Beautiful. An Ansh Theatre Production

With a theme that centres on ideas of fam- Tickets: `270, 225 & 200/- (for Members) ily, loyalty and identity, this play promises `300, 250 & 200/- (for the Public) to be a charming and thought-provoking Box Office: June 9 for Members and June 12 experience. for the Public

Past Forward Two plays in English Dance Theatre Godrej Saturday, 25th and Sunday, 26th – 7.00 p.m.

An Artistic Exclusive Event

Scarborough Fair English Play (50 mins) Roulette A young man has to choose between English Play (60 mins) his two first loves – his girl and his writ- ing. Helping him make the choices are An Indian adaptation of Douglas Hill's his constant companions – the three supernatural comedy, Roulette is the voices in his head. Set to the music of bizarre story of a young couple who are Simon and Garfunkel, this play explores stuck in a never-ending road trip from the coming of age of a confused young Tuscon to Vegas. man as he discovers inspiration, happi- ness and meaning in life. Adapted and directed by Spandan Mishra Cast: Spandan Mishra and Sohini Das Written and directed by Yudhisthir Agrawal Last Minute Productions Cast: Yudhisthir Agrawal, Rahul Prakash, Rashi Mal, Preeti Vangani, Ashtiaq Dal- Tickets: `150/- (for Members) ton and Biswamitra Ray `200/- (for the Public) Box Office: June 9 for Members and June INTERVAL 12 for the Public 28 On Stage June 2011

The Dualities of Liszt – Saint or Sinner? A lecture-recital by Karl Lutchmayer Karl Lutchmayer enjoys an international conductors that include Lorin Maazel Experimental Theatre career as both a pianist and lecturer. He and Andrew Davis, and performed at Tuesday, 28th – 7.00 pm has studied at the Royal College of Mu- all the major London concert halls. He sic where he won numerous prizes and has broadcast on BBC Radio3 and Clas- An NCPA Presentation scholarships, and later held the presti- sic FM, and his regular recital series at gious Constant & Kit Lambert Fellowship the Warehouse has been received with Even in his own lifetime both friends and awarded by the Worshipful Company critical acclaim. A regular chamber per- critics debated the apparent dualities of of Musicians – the first time in its history former, particularly with his own ensem- Liszt’s life and work – artiste or showman, that it was awarded to an instrumental- ble, Dialogos, he is also a passionate saint or sinner, prophet or charla tan, advocate of contemporary music, and ist. Karl has given recitals and played friend or rival – and two hundred years has given numerous premieres and had concertos across the world, working with after his birth the arguments many works written for him. still continue. Karl Lutchmayer invites you to join the debate, Programme: as he plays and talks his audi- ence through the arguments in Liszt: Totentanz (Liszt’s own ar- an exciting lecture-recital. Mix- rangement for solo piano) ing the well-known with a gen- Liszt: Cypress aux Villa D’Este I erous helping of Lisztian rarities Liszt: Mephisto Waltz No. 1 almost never heard in concert, Berlioz-Liszt: March to the Scaf- and juxtaposing late and early fold from Symphonie Fantastique works and original conceptions with stunning transcriptions, this Liszt: Jeux D’eaux aux Villa D’Este promises to be a fascinating Mozart-Liszt: Fantasy on Mozart’s journey of discovery showing Marriage of Figaro how the young firebrand con- quering all before him turned Tickets: 500 & 300/- into the gentle priest and musi- Box Office: June 9 for Members cal visionary. and June 12 for the Public Pant on Fire Stand-up comedy in English (105 mins) Pant on Fire, which mixes stand-up com- Written and directed by Sorabh Pant and Dance Theatre Godrej edy with one of a kind characters like Kunal Rao Wednesday, 29th – 7.30 pm Pantjot Singh Sidhu and Sorabh Pun. The Starring: Sorabh Pant and Kunal Rao show invites you to watch as Pant goes An Artistic Exclusive Event through the challenges of being an Indian Tickets: `250/- (for Members) Obama, why women need batteries and `300/- (for the Public) Stand-up comedian Sorabh Pant has how he would die happy if he could just Box Office: June 9 for Members and June 12 travelled across the country with his show burn his girlfriend’s large purse. for the Public Vision of Forever Odissi recital The performance exemplifies the works Ramli Ibrahim and Sutra Dance Theatre of the late Odissi pioneer Deba Prasad Tata Theatre Das. It unleashes powerful images from Thursday, 30th – 7.00 pm the Shaivite and Tantric traditions, bring- ing out the terrifying beauty associated In collaboration with VIDYA with the repertoire of Ramli’s late guru. The work focuses on the spiritual awak- NCPA in collaboration with VIDYA pres- enings of an acolyte who eventually en- ents a spectacular evening to light up counters the vision of glory of the univer- the lives of many. In a show of both sal spirit through dance. warmth and fervour, watch Malaysia- based Odissi exponent Ramli Ibrahim In Vision of Forever, Ibrahim has chosen perform his breathtaking production Vi- an Odissi repertoire from three major gu- sion of Forever, to raise funds for the edu- rus of this tradition: Durga Charan Ran- cation and empowerment of less privi- bir, Gajendra Kumar Panda and Deba point of Vision of Forever will be the Ar- leged children across the country. Prasad Das. dhanariswara performed by Ramli and Rathimalar. 26 years ago, VIDYA was created on a Most of the works were commissioned by verandah at IIT Delhi with six children Sutra over the past 25 years and will fea- Tickets: `1,000, 800, 600 and 400/- from the nearby slums. Since then, it has ture Sutra’s principal dancers: Rathima- Box Office: June 9 for Members and June transformed the lives of over 2,00,000 lar, Geethika Sree, Nishah Devi, Michelle 12 for the Public. families through its programmes. Chang, Thrisherna and Guna. The focal All proceeds will go to VIDYA. 29 On Stage June 2011 Glimpses of April and May 2011

April 11 and 12: The Kodaly Quartet giving a western music recital at the Experimental Theatre. Harkiran Singh Bhasin NCPA Photo/

April 12: Anupam Kher performed his autobiographical one-act play April 22: Pandit Jasraj enthralled the audience during his Haveli Sangit Kuch bhi Ho Sakta Hai at the Tata Theatre NCPA. performance at the Tata Theatre. Narendra Dangiya Narendra Dangiya NCPA Photo/ NCPA Photo/

April 17: Classic Milds revisited famous English playwrights, at the May 2: Young participants at the NCPA Summer Fiesta dance work- Experimental Theatre. shop at the West Room, Jamshed Bhabha Theatre. 30 On Stage June 2011 July 2011 highlights

NCPA Tata Capital Bandish: Festival of Legendary Composers

Festival of Indian Music Tata Theatre Thursday, 7th to Saturday, 9th – 7.00 pm

Indian music, be it art, semi-classical, light, folk, devotional or popular music, centers around well structured melodic compositions known as bandish. A com- poser (vaggeykar, nayak, rachnakar) as the creator of both lyrics (sahitya) and melodic or rhythmic content is a much re- vered figure in the Indian tradition.

The second edition of this festival will show- case some of the most treasured works of the great composers, presented by emi- nent artistes.

Programme: Thursday, July 7, 7.00 pm Composers: Faiyaz Khan, Inayat Hussain Khan Artistes: Ghulam Hussain Khan (Raja Miyan), Rashid Khan Genres: Bada & Chhota Khayal, Tarana

Friday, July 8, 7.00 pm Composers: Kabir, Surdas, Tulsidas Artistes: Shubha Mudgal, Anup Jalota Genres: Doha, Pad, Bhajan

Saturday, July 9, 7.00 pm Composers: Alladiya Khan, Kumar Gandharva Artistes: Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, Vasundhara Komkali Genres: Bada & Chhota Khayal, Pad

Daily Tickets: Rs.760, 500, 300 & 120/- (Public); Rs.570, 375, 225 & 90/- (Members) (Clockwise from top left: Faiyaz Khan, Inayat Husain Khan, Kumar Gandharva, Alladiya Khan) Box Office: June 9 (Members) and June 12 (Public)

Tom Stoppard’s The Real Inspector Hound. The Real Nayantara Kotian directs the delightful comedy that twists, turns and somersaults Inspector Hound its way through all the conventions of a murder mystery. The play is about the July 30th and 31st police searching for a madman at large. Experimental Theatre Inspector Hound, who is masterminding the operation, has a secret plan... A Quaff Theatre production Starring: Neil Bhoopalam, Ali Fazal, Kalki Koechlin, whose film The Skeleton Ratnabali Bhattacharjee, Tariq Woman won rave reviews a while back, Vasudeva, Suhaas Ahuja, Prerna returns to the stage with a production of Chawla and Gulshan Devaiah. 31 On Stage June 2011 New List of Books: • Natya-mitra By Dr. V.B.Deshpande Pune, Continental Prakashan, 2010

• Ganucha Sadra Arrivals By Dr. Shriram Lagu List of CDs Kankavali, Pandit Pub. 2003

• Char Ekankika • Marvels of sculptured sound: • Live Vocal Concert: Pt. Yashwantbuva By Vasantrao Acharekar Pratishthan Jaijaiwanti & Shudh Kedara Joshi: Ragas: Shivmat Bhairav, Bibhas, Kankavali, Pandit Pub. 2008 Dum Dum, Komal Rishabh Aasavari, Shuddha Gramophone Company Sarang, Gavati • Natarang of India, 1980 Mumbai, Meera Music By Manoj Kolhatkar • Himalayachi Sawli (Marathi play) • Vocal: Pt. Balasaheb Poonchwale Kankavali, Pandit Pub. 2003 Mumbai, Rudra Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. Ragas: Devranjani, Kalingada, Shankara Bhairavi • Kalagi-Tura • Surya Pahilela Manus (Marathi play) Mumbai, Meera Music By Dr. Dhondiram Wadkar Mumbai, Rudra Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. Pune, Padmagandha Prakashan, • Vocal: Tappa: Pt. Balasaheb 2010 • Samarpan: Tribute to Jaipur- Poonchwale Ragas: Khamaj Atrauli Gharana (5 Tappas), Jhinjhoti, Kafi (3 Tappas), Mumbai, Wamani, 2007 Sindhu Kafi, Bhairavi (4 Tappas) • Natak: Swarup Va Sameeksha By D. B. Kulkarni • Chit Anand: Pt. Chidanand Nagarkar • Vocal: Shruti Sadolikar Katkar Ragas: Pune, Padmagandha Prakashan, Ragas: Todi, Miyan Malhar, Kafi, Marwa, Jayant Malhar, Shudh Nat 2010 Thumri, Bhairavi- Bhajan and Tarana Mumbai, Meera Music Mumbai, Meera Music Vedh Marathi Natya Sangeetacha • Flute: Pt. Devendra Murdeshwar • • Chit Anand: Pt. Chidanand Nagarkar Raga: Puriya Kalyan, Jhinjhoti, Pilu By Jayram Potdar Ragas: Bhairav, Bairagi, Ramkali Thumri Pune, Diamond Pub. 2010 Mumbai, Meera Music Mumbai, Meera Music, • Sarjanshil Shataki Pravas (The listed books and CDs are available at the NCPA Library. By Leni Rifenshtal For membership details call 66223715) Thane, Param Mitra Pub., 2010

• Wah Pahala Aadami By Albert Camus New Delhi, Wani Prakashan, 2009

• Awara Masiha By Vishnu Prabhakar Delhi, Rajpal & Sons, 2010 32 On Stage June 2011

NCPA News

Letters to Editor Your feedback is important to us, please feel free to write in with your comments on On Stage and events at the NCPA to me, Lily Shroff at [email protected]. Alternatively, if you’d like to advertise with us, you may email me at the same address or contact me on 66223827. We look forward to your views to make this magazine more enjoyable and helpful.

Online booking for members Online booking for members will be starting soon. Kindly look out for the step-by-step process from next issue onwards. We are confident that this will facilitate greater ease and accessibility of ticket bookings.

New Library timings The NCPA Library timings have been changed w.e.f. May 1, 2011. New timings are – 10.00 am to 6.00 pm, Monday to Friday.

NCPA – CITI Scholarship Applications are invited from students in the age group of 18 to 28 years, for a scholarship to pursue advance training in Hindustani Music (Vocal). The selected candidates will appear for audition at the NCPA, Mumbai, at their own expense. The value of the scholarship is `2,000/- per month for one year (2011-2012). With an application, sent in an envelope marked NCPA – CITI’s Scholarship for Indian Music, containing details of training, background and other particulars should reach the National Centre for the Performing Arts, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021 or mailed to [email protected] on or before July 30, 2011.

Contacts at the NCPA

Advertising and Editorial in Lily Shroff 66223827 10am to 6pm On Stage (Mon to Fri)

Box Office Chandrakant Jadhav 66548135 9am to 7pm Yogesh Salvi 66223724 (Mon to Sun)

Administration Molly Chacko 66223737 10am to 6pm Switchboard Shridhar Marathe (Mon to Fri)

Membership Deepti Bellad 22834500 10am to 6pm Department Nitin Sawant 66223719 (Mon to Fri)

Venue Bookings Farah Ghadiali 66223731 10am to 6pm Nooshin Kotwal 66223723 (Mon to Fri)

Sponsorship Sriram Emani 66223741 10am to 6pm & Partnerships Supriya Gokarn 66223744 (Mon to Fri)

Membership queries We sincerely hope that you avail and enjoy all your benefits as an NCPA member and be assured that we will work towards providing you with the best facilities. We would be happy to assist you in case you require clarifications. To get in touch, please contact us at – [email protected] ( e-mail) or 022–66223719 (tel) 33 On Stage May 2011

Changes in NCPA Membership rates

We would like to inform you of a few changes which have been implemented in the Membership rates, w.e.f May 15, 2011.

Please find below the revisions in rates:

Life Membership: Life Membership will be converted from the current ‘life term’ to a period of 25 years. This will be effective for fresh applicants from May 15, 2011 onwards. Kindly note, members who are already registered with the NCPA as Life Members, continue to enjoy the same benefits and the ‘life term’.

Limited period Life Membership offer: With reference to the above point, those wishing to avail of Life Membership for more than 25 years could do so before May 15, 2011. Post this date, the Life Membership Conversion regulation will apply.

Revised fee Structure from May 15, 2011:

Category: Fee (`)

 Individual 5000  Couple 8000  Student (6 – 25 yrs) 2000  Senior Citizen (60 yrs & above) 2000  Couple Senior Citizen 2500  Handicapped 500  Life Member (for 25 yrs) – Individual 125000  Life Members (for 25 yrs) – Couple 200000

Defence and armed forces personnel membership: We have introduced a new package for the Indian armed forces – Army, Navy, Air Force and Police. Therefore we would urge you to spread the word and avail of these special rates if you meet the relevant criteria.

Category: Fee (`)

 Individual 2500  Couple 4000  Student (6 – 25 yrs) 1000  Senior Citizen (60 yrs & above) 1000  Couple Senior Citizen 1300  Handicapped 250

You may call us on 66223719 or email us at [email protected] if you need any further clarifications. Way to NCPA We are at the southernmost tip of Marine Drive, adjacent to Hotel Oberoi. The NCPA is easily accessible by bus or taxi. Share-a-taxi rides are available from C.S.T. and Churchgate stations to Nariman Point, next to NCPA.

BOX OFFICE

PARKING

MAIN OFFICE PRIVATE & STAFF AREAS

NCPA MAIN OFFICE

BOX PRIVATE & NCPA OFFICE PARKING STAFF AREAS MAIN OFFICE Theatre seating & floorplan 36 On Stage June 2011 MEMBERSHIP Membership Categories: Category: Fees:(`) TT *Individual 5000 APPLICATION FORM TT *Couple 8000 TT *Student 2000 Membership to the NCPA opens a window to an exciting world (6 yrs – 25 yrs) of modern theatres, art galleries and attractive open spaces. TT *Senior Citizen 2000 The performing and visual arts can be a creative, enjoyable (60 yrs and above) TT *Couple Senior Citizen 2500 and fun learning experience. TT *Differently Abled 500 TT Individual Primary member name: ______Life Member (25 yrs) 125000 • Couple Life Joint member name: ______(in case of couple membership) Member 200000

Membership No. (in case of renewal): ______Call 66223719 for: • Special rates for defence Referred by: ______personnel (Army/Navy/Air Force) • Corporate Membership packages Address: ______Membership Benefits: ______Zip Code: ______• Generous discounts on all tickets for NCPA productions Tel: ______Mobile: ______• A copy of our monthly arts magazine, On Stage • Priority booking up to 3 days in E-mail: ______Date of Birth: ______advance • Access to exclusive members’ Occupation: ______Company:______only events • Free use of NCPA library facilities Date: ______Signature: ______• Exclusive offers on select brands *Annual membership from 1st April - 31st March

Your contribution of `10,000/- will be eligible for income tax deduction Be a Friend under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act. Each friend of the SOI is also One of the great pleasures of music is sharing the experience with entitled to the following benefits: friends. Become a Friend of the Symphony Orchestra of India and • Acknowledgment in the brochure join the NCPA on this exciting musical journey of developing the SOI of SOI Season concerts • Two complimentary tickets to any as an outstanding cultural resource for Mumbai. one performance each Season • Priority booking advantages Membership to ‘The Friends of the Symphony Orchestra of India’ (6 days before the general public, 3 days before NCPA Members) Dear Sir, • Invitation to at least one private I wish to become a friend of the Symphony Orchestra of India reception • Opportunities to meet artistes Name: ______after concerts Membership No. (in case of renewal): ______• A copy of our monthly arts magazine, On Stage Referred by: ______• Free access to the NCPA Library Address: ______• Exclusive offers on select brands

______Zip Code: ______Cheques for both NCPA and SOI should be drawn in favour of Occupation: ______Company: ______‘National Centre for the Performing Tel: ______Mobile: ______Arts’ and submitted along with a stamp sized photograph to: E-mail: ______Date of Birth: ______The Membership Department, Tata Theatre, NCPA, NCPA Marg, Cheaue No.: ______Date: ______Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. Drawn On: ______E-mail: [email protected] Date: ______Signature: ______Tel: 022 - 66223719 37 On Stage June 2011 38 SouthOn Stage June 2011 Asia's South Asia's finestfinest multi-artsmulti-arts and and entertainmententertainment venue venue

With a prime location in the heart of Mumbai's downtown business district, Nariman Point, the NCPA houses an impressive complex of structures, modern facilities and outside spaces suitable for all occasions.

For further details contact: The National Centre for the Performing Arts Marketing Department, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400021. Tel: +91 (0)22 66223737 Email: [email protected] www.ncpamumbai.com