Artistic endeavour

FRIENDSHIP, FAMILY ties and Nature - these form the fulcrum of human existence. These are ideals that Shel Silverstein explores in his story "The Giving Tree". And it is this story that the Cleveland Cultural Alliance has adapted to Indian settings for its latest dance theatre production. It is also based on the Indian folk tale, "The Mango Tree"

Titled "The Living Tree", the presentation will be an blend of classical and folk dance styles, keeping in tune with the theme. The story of the dance drama revolves round a girl and her mango tree, highlighting the common bond and interdependence between Man and Nature.

Kalakshetra-trained G Narendra is choreographing the show. The music is by V.S.Narasimhan, a classically trained violinist, who is the founder of the Madras String Quartet.The script is by well-known art presenter and artist Dr. Lucille Gruber, who has done extensive reading of the Upanishads to select appropriate verses and has prepared the commentaries for the dance drama.

The Cleveland Cultural Alliance (CCA) is a non-profit organisation which was established in 1991 by Uma Ganesan to promote Indian performing arts among the Americans. The CCA has presented several productions, including "Jaya Jaya Deva" and "Jungle Book", and lec-dems across the United States.

The CCA is presenting the world premiere of "The Living Tree" on March 16, 6.30 p.m., at the Music Academy.

Also planned is a special free performance for underprivileged children on March 17, 11 a.m., at the same venue. Tickets are available at the Music Academy from March 9, 10. a.m.-1 p.m. or 4.p.m. to 7.p.m. For more details, dial 4470387 or 4984408.

A U.S. tour is also on the cards in the end of March.

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Section  : Entertainment