GIGENIS: the generation of the Earth by Akram Khan

Akram Khan returns to his roots with his latest creation, ‘GIGENIS: the generation of the Earth’. He brings together several forms of classical Indian dance – Kutiyattam, Bharatanatyam, Odissi (and may also draw influence from Kathak) – to seamlessly blend trough a contemporary choreographic vision. His exploration of cross-cultural encounters, cultivated over the past 23 years, serves as the driving force for this groundbreaking showcase.

‘GIGENIS’ marks Khan's first foray into curating an ensemble piece. As he draws from his deep connection to traditional practices, his unique artistic voice weaves storytelling with movement in an innovative style that is both poetic and experiential. 

In this extraordinary performance Khan collaborates with leading artists, including Kapila Venu, a master of Kutiyattam, who anchors the narrative with a moving portrayal of the central female figure, reflecting on the past. Sirikalyani Adkoli, a disciple of the Nrityagram Dance Village, embodies the joy and innocence of youth as the daughter. The dynamic duo Vijna Vasudevan and Renjith Babu Choorakkad, both acclaimed Bharatanatyam dancers, portray the blissful couple whose happiness is shattered by sudden conflict. Mythili Prakash, also a Bharatanatyam artist, plays the mother whose two sons are performed by Khan and Mavin Khoo, bringing their respective Kathak and Bharatanatyam traditions to the theatrical.

Together, the dancers create a deeply evocative performance, where personal memories and collective histories intertwine. Joining them are musicians Basavanahalli Chandramouli Manjunath on Mridangam, Rajeev Kalamandalam on Mizhavu, Hariraam Lam on Violin, Nina Harries on Double Bass, and Sohini Alam, Sushma Soma and Rohith Jayaraman on vocals, providing a rich and immersive sonic backdrop to bring the story to life. 

More than just a performance, ‘GIGENIS’ is a profound statement about the enduring power of tradition in the face of an ever-changing world. Come bask in the timeless nature of stories, culture and connection, as Akram Khan spotlights the rich and diverse world of Indian classical dance, a rarity in the mainstream dance industry! 

GIGENIS – the generation of the Earth is produced by Productions Sarfati. Presented with the support of Orsolina28 Art Foundation and Muse Art Foundation. In co-production with Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Singapore; Sadler’s Wells, London; and The Joyce Theater with support from its Executive Director’s Fund and the Stephen and Cathy Weinroth Fund for New Work.

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