Events › Intro to Indian Classical Dance: Odissi with Sudhesna Mohapatra

Have you ever experienced the history and artistry of Indian Classical Dance? Come learn about this culture of movement with the Indian Classical Music Society of Vancouver and Aṣṭa Alliance! Our first program in this ongoing workshop series will feature the classical dance form Odissi presented by expert dancer Sudhesna Mohapatra.

Odissi is one of India’s oldest classical dance forms, with roots in the temples of Odisha (Eastern India) over 2,000 years ago. Revived in the last fifty years, it is now recognized, based on archival evidence, as the most ancient of India’s classical dances. Our presenter for this program, Sudhesna Mohapatra, is an expert in this form and has been studying and presenting Odissi performances for over 30 years. Sudhesna’s practice embodies the full spectrum of Odissi’s technical and expressive vocabulary, sculptural poses inspired by temple architecture, and the interplay between lasya (fluid movement) and tandava (dynamic, powerful energy).

During this program, expect to see a brief Odissi performance alongside a discussion of the history, cultural context, and techniques of this dance form. No experience needed, just curiosity!

This program is presented in partnership with the Indian Classical Music Society of Vancouver and Aṣṭa Alliance.

Live Music at VPL is generously supported by VPL Foundation donors.