The acclaimed Katha Dance Theatre comes to Northfield on Friday, Jan. 19, performing from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Weitz Center for Creativity Kracum Performance Hall at Carleton College. Renowned for the beauty and intricacy of their performances, Katha presents dance works in the Kathak Indian dance tradition, the classical dance style of North India.
Based in Crystal, Minnesota, Katha Dance Theatre creates, performs, and educates through traditional and contemporary dance, music, poetry, and storytelling in the Kathak tradition.
This graceful, spontaneous dance has its origin in the narrative tradition of the village minstrel, the storyteller. Enriched over the centuries with Indo-Persian cultures, this narrative entertainment blossomed into the intricately patterned dance form known today as Kathak, one of the six major classical dance forms of India. Considered by many to be one of the most dynamic theater arts in the world, Kathak dance combines lyrical grace, subtle expressions and meaningful hand gestures with physically demanding pirouettes and intricate footwork. Contemporary Kathak has introduced choreography as an important element, infusing this ancient art form with modern themes and fresh energy.
Katha Dance Theatre is led by artistic director Rita Mustaphi, a native of Kolkata, India. Katha is distinguished by its impeccable technique and dynamic performances, celebrating the Indian-American cultural experience, and preserving and enriching India’s Kathak traditions. The ensemble has performed to much acclaim nationally and around the globe. Learn more about Katha's performances and dance school here.
This event is free and open to the public. For more information, including disability accommodations, call (507) 222-4389. Kracum Performance Hall is located in the Weitz Center for Creativity at Third and College Streets in Northfield.
