Some of the world's finest creators and performers of South Asian dance will share the same stage and spotlight, as they embark on a trailblazing mission to challenge the static tropes and clichés prevalent in classical, contemporary, modern, and popular dance forms. In signature style, Engendered, a trans-national arts and human rights organization focused on creating awareness around issues of gender and sexuality in South Asia and its Diasporas, is proud to host dozens of South Asia's most innovative artists for an exhilarating week of performances, workshops, panel discussions, and parties in the New York tri-state area from Tuesday, April 20 to Sunday, April 25 (final schedule of daily events to be announced soon).
The Engendered Dance Festival's mainstage performances, on Saturday, April 24 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Symphony Space and Sunday, April 25 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Lincoln Center, will introduce New York dance enthusiasts to a range of performances from established and emerging dance companies and soloists, marginalized voices in dance from Pakistan and Afghanistan, and TWO world premieres (created that week) incorporating classical dance with technology with visual art.
"Dance, as an anachronistic suspension of modernity, invites us to explore global culture, as presented through experimental work and living traditions," says Myna Mukherjee, a classical dancer, choreographer, and Executive Director of Engendered. "As opposed to a two-dimensional patriarchal formulation of gender relationships, the work showcased in this festival preserves, reworks, and re-appropriates ulterior forms of gender and sexuality."
***Media-friendly events:
Tuesday, April 20 from 6 - 8 p.m. at The Lincoln Center:
Press reception with sneak preview of upcoming performances, introductions to dance companies, soloists, and choreographers, and viewing of ‘Dance on Film' series. RSVP required in advance.
Saturday, April 24 from 7 - 10 p.m. at Symphony Space:
Main showcase of dance performances divided into three thematic sections exploring issues of gender and sexuality through dance. Each section will last approximately 40 minutes and will be followed by a brief intermission. Dance reviewers and critics highly encouraged to attend this showcase.
Sunday, April 25 from 4 - 6 p.m. at The Lincoln Center:
Performances and workshops by solo artists who will engage New York's dance enthusiasts through one-on-one interaction and "tips of the trade." This event is open to the public and interested media. RSVP required in advance.
Sunday, April 25 from 7 - 10 p.m. at The Lincoln Center:
Closing night reception with hors d'oeuvres and cash bar, performance highlights from the festival, and a DJ spinning everything from Bhangra to Bollywood beats. RSVP required in advance.