Review of Nava Dance Theatre at Choreofest 2022

Nava Dance Theatre uses bharatanatyam, a classical south Indian dance form, as their medium. For Rogue Gestures they performed on the raised platforms and walkways of YBG’s Children's Garden, with the audience seated in the grassy areas looking up. Three of their four pieces used traditional gestures and hand shapes with thumb to the middle finger and the other fingers extended. The dancers wore black short saris over colorful blouses and full back pants gathered at the ankles, where bells were wrapped above bare feet.

The third piece was unique in texture and casting. It was performed by three women clothed in long blue tunics and beige culottes. A narrative of sorts unfolded. Using their hands, working separately, they mimed building a low tower of grain or sand, which collapsed repeatedly and had to be rebuilt. Suddenly they covered their ears. They were distraught, as they looked into the distance. Two dropped to their knees, pulling in an invisible net, as the third fell heavily forward at the waist before rising again hands over her head with great effort, as if cutting down something huge.

The fourth section was introduced by choreographer Nahdi Thekkek, who shared that this dance was about allowing joy. She graciously gave us permission to enjoy the dance without concern for our lack of knowledge of Indian dance. The elegance and posture maintained while performing fast-paced arm gestures, and rhythmic footwork was impressive, as was the control required to balance in poses. Near the end, the dancers entered the audience, clapping and stomping creating an inclusive conclusion to a multifaceted afternoon of al fresco contemporary dance.

(Photo Credit: Jen Norris of Nava Dance Theatre in Children's Garden, Yerba Buena Gardens)