World-renowned choreographer Akram Khan returns to his roots and delves into his past in his latest creation, Gigenis: The generation of the Earth, set to premiere at the Grand Théâtre de Provence in Aix-en-Provence.
Produced by Productions Sarfati, this ground-breaking work will be crafted within the picturesque studios of Orsolina28, Italy’s esteemed dance sanctuary, in May 2024. The work marks Khan’s first venture into curating an ensemble piece showcasing Indian classical dance — a rarity within the mainstream dance industry.
Over the last 23 years, Khan has developed a uniquely individual voice as a protagonist of cross-cultural encounters. It is this very encounter that provokes a personal need for this new creation. Drawing from his deep-seated connection to traditional practices and his ability to weave narratives through movement, Khan’s Gigenis transcends time, invoking the collective memories of our civilization.
Embarking on his new artistic journey as a director, Khan shares the stage alongside a distinguished ensemble of acclaimed artists from the realm of Indian classical dance. This ensemble includes Kutiyattam artist Kapila Venu, esteemed Bharatanatyam soloists Mavin Khoo and Mythili Prakash, as well as duo Vijna Vasudevan and Renjith Babu, with a score devised and performed through a collaboration of live musicians. Gigenis explores the personal embodied memories of each artist, resonating with the essence of our shared human experience.
Khan said, “I feel humbled to be working with the Sarfati team in this new artistic chapter, where I will be sharing the stage alongside extraordinary Indian classical soloists from specific generations. Gigenis is a profound tribute to that reflection, a reconciliation between the past and the present times, a genuine celebration of our collective love for dance — boundless, timeless, as well as deeply rooted. It is a work that comes out of an urgent personal response to the endangerment of tradition. Honouring the tradition of kathak, I am excited to be that storyteller once more, not through my body but through the bodies of some of the most prodigious current and future masters of classical Indian dance.”
Vony Sarfati, CEO of Productions Sarfati, said, “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be involved in producing Akram Khan’s next creation, Gigenis. After almost 20 years of collaboration with Akram, this is not only a tremendous honour but a deeply meaningful endeavour for me personally. I believe Akram Khan’s innovative approach to dance makes him a visionary in the world of performing arts. For all our team at the Productions Sarfati contributing to the realisation of his vision is an extraordinary privilege. I am also thankful for the opportunity to work alongside such talented artists and somehow to play a role in bringing this creative endeavour to life as a celebration of the spirituality, richness and diversity of Indian culture. I eagerly anticipate the journey ahead and the impact that this collaboration could have on audiences worldwide, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation, showcasing the beauty of Indian classical dance in a way that is both timeless and ground-breaking.”
Gigenis represents not just a performance but a profound statement — a testament to the enduring resonance of tradition in a rapidly changing world.
Full details of the international tour are to be announced over the coming months.
For more, head to www.akramkhancompany.net/productions/gigenis.
