GEORGE TOWN, Aug 21 — It’s the creation story, presented in dance form. Nothing new about that but Kaash, an Akram Khan production, takes it to another level and intertwines Indian classical dance with contemporary movement.

The creation (and destruction) of the cosmos is played out against tumultuous and pulsating music as five dancers spin, stamp and twirl to the beat of a rhythmic score.‘Kaash’ explores the connection between Hindu mythology, multi universe and science. — Picture by KE Ooi
‘Kaash’ explores the connection between Hindu mythology, multi universe and science. — Picture by KE Ooi

The revival of choreographer Akram Khan’s production is one that explores the mysticism of Hindu mythology and the universe.

The drumming and chanting of the score by award-winning music composer Nitin Sawhney underlines the basic steps of the kathak dance as the dancers transition from one swift movement to the arc of another, creating a mesmerising wordless story of Hindu mythology and science.‘Kaash’ explores the mysticism of Hindu mythology and the universe. — Picture by KE Ooi
‘Kaash’ explores the mysticism of Hindu mythology and the universe. — Picture by KE Ooi

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Kaash, translated to mean “if only”, first premiered in 2002 and was performed in 133 shows in two countries.

Its revival premiered in Grenoble, France recently and it was performed in South-east Asia for the first time here at the George Town Festival at Dewan Sri Pinang last night. There will be another performance tonight.‘Kaash’ tells the creation story in dance form. — Picture by KE Ooi
‘Kaash’ tells the creation story in dance form. — Picture by KE Ooi

Akram Khan teamed up with renowned British Indian sculptor Anish Kapoor and award-winning Sawhney for the performance, which is also his first full-length production.

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“The inspiration behind Kaash was a very simple, but a very complex one.

“It was about exploring the connection between Hindu mythology, multi universe, science, physics, quantum and parallel universes and the Black Hole. This was the starting point,” the UK choreographer said about his work.

He welcomed the opportunity to perform at George Town Festival and likened the month-long arts and culture festival as a window, or a door into Malaysia.

“This festival is extraordinary and it really allows a space for dialogue of themes, dialogue of human struggle, dialogue of celebration through art. And we need that so much more now because these windows are slowly being closed,” he said.

Akram Khan, who has collaborated with international artists like pop icon Kylie Minogue, ballerina Sylvie Guillem, choreographers and dancers Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and Israel Galván, has won many awards and racked up numerous achievements.

Kaash is one of the international performances at the annual GTF that is from July 29 until August 28 this year.

“We are very proud to host Akram Khan and his troupe of international dancers. Their powerful performance is sure to enthrall viewers and provide an unforgettable experience,” said festival director Joe Sidek.

Find out more about GTF events at georgetownfestival.com.