song of the city
Combining contemporary dance and ballet with classical Bharatanatyam techniques.
Inspired by Rabindaranath Tagore’s songs, drawings and creativity. Celebrating Tagore 150.
Using Rabindranath Tagore’s philosophies, poems, songs and sketches as inspiration, song of the city combined contemporary dance and ballet with classical Bharatanatyam techniques. Inspired by Tagore, this production put his beautiful imagery of the Bengali rural landscape in sharp contrast with the metallic architecture of modern-day urban London. Using a steampunk aesthetic, Song of the City conveyed a narrative where city dwellers fall in and out of tune with the city as they leave behind a daily routine to discover hidden and surprising revelations.
With dynamic choreography by Ash Mukherjee, a rich musical score by clarinettist Arun Ghosh, supported with emotive vocals by Sohini Alam, song of the city remains one of Akademi’s most striking productions.
Created for The Vault at the Southwark Playhouse, the piece premièred deep within the bustling streets of the capital , before touring nationally.
song of the city was nominated as Time Out’s Critics’ Choice and The Times’ Tip for the Weekend.
Creative Team
Direction and choreography: Ash Mukherjee
Dramaturg & Scenographer: Deepan Sivaraman
Original score: Arun Ghosh
Vocals: Sohini Alam
Translation: William Radice
Lighting Designer: Bill Deverson
Costumes and Styling: Ash Mukherjee
Production & Stage Management: Anthony Osborne
Filmmaker: Will Huntley
Line Producer: Lydia Fraser-Ward
Cast
Kamala Devam, Kim Amundsen and Gian Luca Loddo
Supported by
ICCR, The Nehru Centre, Kala Sangum, Rich Mix, London Councils, Camden Council and Southwark Playhouse.
Media Credits
Pete Schiazza and Simon Richardson.
