Shiva Shakti

Last night I went and saw Shiva Shakti at the Regal Theatre.This performance was a mixture between traditional/indigenous traditions and the acrobatics and dance of today. The performance consisted of drummers, who not only played the drums but also danced throughout the whole performance. The main drummer who would pop up in different scenes throughout the performance. He had done a lot of study in classical and then different styles of music throughout the years. The dancers were on and off constantly throughout the performance. There was a lead, she was on for the majority of the performance. The lead performer had been trained in Kathak dancing for 15 years.

 The Costumes in this performance were usually just block colours, mainly black red or white. However some of the costumes like shown in the photo below represented more the indigenous/traditional costumes. This was very effective especially the tassel costumes. This is because it exaggerated the their movements. Their was also some traditional Indian costumes as well.

 The set, props and lighting were very well set out. Every now and then throughout the performance they would drop the front curtain and the drummers would just perform. The aerial transitions were very smooth, and the way they used it to their advantage (sword fighting scenes, in the air and on the floor) was very well done. The whole performance was hectic but very well structured. All the performers were very well trained.

In all this performance has defiantly been one of my favourite pieces of theatre. It opened my eyes to a different culture as well as helping me appreciate the art further.