Chandigarh, June 28 :A delightful cultural bonanza marked the conclusion of the 17th month-long production-oriented workshops in Dance and Theatrical arts conducted by Pracheen Kala Kendra. The programme took place at Dr. M.S. Randhawa Auditorium of Punjab Kala Bhawan here today.
The traditional and austere style of adherence to the puritanical rigidities and folk culture, synonymous with the Kendra, was perceptible in all the presentations by the 100 participants (Dance 70, Theatre 30) in the age group of 5 to 15 years. The Kendra had roped in acclaimed artistes namely Renu Panth, disciple of Guru Shobha Koser and Asif Ali to impart the finer nuances of dance and theatre respectively.
After the traditional lighting of a lamp, the programme commenced with invocatory group dance recital “Bam bam Bhole” paying obeisance to Lord Shiva. Budding artistes looked amazingly poised and confident. It was followed by “Welcome Dance” (Swagat Nritya) which saw the youngsters displaying commendable dance movements with the gestures of calm contemplation. They attempted to exhibit their grasp of the fundamental patterns of classical dance.
Then followed a play titled “Birthday Party”. Set in the children theatre language, the story of the play revolves around an un-invited guest. In a jungle, a bear invites all his friends to the birthday party except fox. But she reached the venue un-invited and all were astonished to see her there. The Goa Dance “Kalyan saakli Korean chi…” brought alive the twang, grace and charm of Goa which drew applause from the audience.
The next presentation of the evening was a ballet titled “Krishna” depicting different aspects and pranks of Lord Krishna. Asif Ali-directed play “Baat Ka Batangad” staged next. The drama portrayed how people make fussy on matters having no importance or relevance. If there was Rajasthani dance Ghumar “Mayari devrani-jethani roos gayi…”, Punjabi folk dance Bhangra was also not left out. Attired in elegant costumes, junior artists performed these pieces with verve, vigour and eloquence. The audience and parents were seen tapping their feet.
A.R. Rehman’s song on “Peace” performed as the concluding item of the programme in which children depicted India’s unity in diversity.Smt. Shobha Koser, Registrar of the Kendra honoured the artists.