Sadler's Wells
UK Premiere
Choreographed by: Akram Khan
Live music fills the Sadler's Wells theatre to the brim, as Khan collaborates with six classical Indian dance artists in a ground shaking performance that reflects on the past, traditions and roots that live deep in Khan's heart.
Yet again, Khan has returned to Sadler's stage, with a UK premiere of his newest choreography 'Gigenis'. Another show this year! After he brought his version of 'Giselle' with the English National Ballet back to Sadler's in September. Not only has he created a new piece, but for the first time in 4 years he's back on stage! Bucket list moment.
It's no surprise that the choreography is groundbreaking; Khan has carefully crafted his own dance style, and this piece celebrates the journey to this authentic style. A reflection of Khan's own self, but also the traditions and roots he embodies as a person. 'Gigenis' shows a time when civilisation was more grounded and closer to mother earth, how the past has influenced the future and a statement about not letting go of traditions in a world that is evolving day by day. The choreography follows a mother who reflects on her life when she was born, when she was married and when she became a mother. She tragically lost her husband in the war and one of her sons. Greif, reflection and tradition are the most prominent themes of the work. A heart-breaking journey filled with deep emotion and obscure, yet beautiful story told through Khan's signature movement style.
One of the strongest production elements in enhancing the culture of the piece was the sound. Many musicians surround the stage, they are sat cross legged, with microphones and sing during the performance. There is a lot of live sound, which enhances the idea of being close to nature, because the sound is from the artists voices, rather than any form of invention or technology. This sets the environment and tone of the piece perfectly. Also, the sound of the singing is entrancing, bounces off the walls of the theatres and sends vibrations throughout the audience. This experience is like no other.
The most powerful element Khan holds is his style and way of storytelling. Which is previously mentioned. He focuses particularly on hand gestures and how/where they are performed. For instance, there is a repeated gesture where the dancers will make a crown-like shape with their hands and place it on another dancer's head, this gives an idea of responsibility being passed over. The unique gestures he creates allow the dancers to relax other expressive elements, because the gestures tell a story of their own and the audience are drawn the them. Kathak has been a style he has fused to an abundance of his previous works and the dance having such a strong level of this style, again enhances how this piece is about his roots and traditions. The movements tell a story of course, but together they display Khan's gratitude for who he is and his journey, which is moving and as an audience member you feel honoured that he has shared it with you. The portrayal of loss and grief within the dance builds from start to finish. The moment when the mother is overwhelmed and filled with grief, the climax of the piece; it is genuinely heart breaking, a silent scream. A very poignant moment.
The prominent statement of the piece is crystal clear; however, the story is not the easiest to follow and you have to be switched on throughout to not miss any elements. For someone who is new to watching dance it would be difficult to get into. This would be a piece for the dance lovers. On the other hand, the message is strong, also relevant, and the dancers performance is moving. Which is what makes the piece so appealing. Khan is a dance marvel and his work is unique, you would be silly to miss this reminder of traditions being important and a celebration of culture! You will walk out of the theatre moved and shaken!
What's next for Akram Khan? Can't wait to see more fantastic dance choreography!
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