Artistic work & productions
As vocalist, choreographer and artistic director
Alongside my work as a teacher, I am active as a vocalist, choreographer and artistic director. Performing, making music and developing productions are important parts of my own artistic development.
As a choreographer
My teacher Sri M.D. Venkatesh in India gave me a deep understanding of the principles of the Kanchipuram Ellappa Mudaliar Bani. We also had many valuable discussions about choreography and stage presentation.
Drawing on these experiences, I work with respect for the classical principles of Bharatanatyam, while also creating space for new perspectives.
I create classical works, such as Ramayana, as well as productions that explore other themes and art forms. Yatra, centred on Hindustani migration, is one example.
Dance and live music
Wherever possible, I work with live music in my choreographies. The direct interaction between dancers and musicians brings a special dynamic to a performance.
I collaborate with Vidwan S.V. Giridhara, whose expertise in music and rhythm makes an important contribution to these productions.
As a vocalist
I regularly perform as a vocalist with my own music ensemble. My repertoire includes:
- North Indian classical music
- South Indian classical music
- Light classical music
- Bhajans
- Songs from the older Bollywood repertoire
“Making music is my passion.”
For me, a performance is not only about the repertoire, but also about the interaction between the voice, the music and the other musicians.
Percy Muntslag
Together with Surinamese ballet teacher Percy Muntslag, I created approximately seven productions over a period of more than ten years, bringing ballet and Bharatanatyam together.
For these productions, the dancers also trained in ballet technique. The aim was not to replace the classical foundation of Bharatanatyam, but to explore what can emerge when dancers from different dance traditions work together.
Sri Vinayaka productions
Over the years, Sri Vinayaka has developed a variety of productions involving:
- Original choreographies and adaptations
- Live music
- Dancers from Sri Vinayaka and other dancers
- Collaboration with dance schools and dance teachers
- Training and guidance for participating dancers
For me, a production is more than the final performance. The process in which dancers develop and work together towards a performance is an essential part of the artistic work.
Artistic director and programmer
Alongside my work with Sri Vinayaka, I am artistic director of Stichting Beyond Bharata Natyam Den Haag, where I also work on artistic productions. One example is Pancha Bhutam.
I am also a guest programmer for Indian music at Theater De Regentes in The Hague.
Productions on film
Documentation and archive
Registration or more information?
For registration or further information: Sitrawatie Bonoo, telephone 06 20534824.