A classical Veena Instrumental recital.

A classical Veena Instrumental recital.

Traditions & Innovations in Indian Classical Dance

Rasik presents the world renowned Dr. Neena Prasad in a live concert of Mohiniyattam Indian classical dance with live musical accompaniment.   About the performance and Dr. Neena Prasad: Rasik Dance Concert Series presents Dr. Neena Prasad in a Live Concert! Mohiniyattam is an Indian classical dance from the southern Indian state of Kerala, recognized for its embodiment of feminine grace (lasya), curvilinear movements, and layered poetic expression shaped by the theatrical heritage of Kerala. Dr. Neena Prasad is regarded as the leading figure among contemporary Mohiniyattam performers. Possessing a unique combination of the refined artistic sensibility of a performer and a strong academic background in dance theory, Dr. Prasad is both a masterful performer and an adept choreographer. She has performed extensively across India and internationally, showcasing solo repertoire alongside ensemble and thematic productions. Her contributions to Mohiniyattam have significantly enhanced its existing movement vocabulary, resulting in the development of a distinct style or tradition within its broader context. In 2021, the Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s national academy dedicated to the performing arts, honored her with the Sangeet Natak Akademi award for her contributions to the art of Mohiniyattam. Among her numerous accolades, she also received the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award in 2007, as well as the prestigious Nritya Choodamani Award from the Madras Music Academy in 2024. Rasik, in collaboration with the Dance Complex, takes great pride in introducing Dr. Neena Prasad to the Boston audience. At this performance, which is part of a U.S. tour, Prasad will be accompanied by a live ensemble of four musicians including: Changanasseri Madhavan Nampoothiri (Vocal); Ramesh Babu (Mridangam); Kalamandalam Arundas (Idakka); Shyam Kalyan (Violin). Together with Prasad, the musicians bring audiences into the rich world of Mohiniyattam, where intricate rhythm, poetry and storytelling converge into a memorable experience of live dance. About Rasik: Rasik is a grassroots initiative to curate and present classical dances of India in their traditional form by artists of diverse backgrounds with the goal of integrating them into the wider cultural landscape. ‘Rasik’, the word in many Indian languages for someone who savors an aesthetic experience, aims to place the audience at the center of this process because Indian dance thrives on a deep investment and willing participation of the audience as co-creators of a shared creative experience. Conceived, created, and supported by members of the Boston dance community, Rasik strives to cultivate an informed and invested audience for Indian dance in Massachusetts and reflect the vibrant expanding cultural heritage of our community. Through a carefully curated concert series, presented in ways accessible to a thoughtful but uninitiated audience, Rasik aims to strengthen the relationship between Indian dance forms and the larger arts community. This concert is supported in part by Cambridge Arts, a local agency which is supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Support is also provided by the Cambridge Community Fund from the Cambridge Community Foundation.

A duet by Renjith & Vijna Bharatanatyam Artistes