Kalaa Utsavam, the famed annual Indian festival of arts in Singapore, returns this November for its 2023 edition, with a vibrant bouquet of artistic and cultural performances, and a series of workshops and masterclasses. Presented by Esplanade, the national performing arts centre of Singapore, Kalaa Utsavam 2023 has the attractive mix of classical and contemporary that audiences have come to eagerly expect from this 10-day festival.
Now in its 22nd year, Kalaa Utsavam is Southeast Asia’s first Indian arts festival and one of the longest-running festivals of its kind. It continues to provide a platform for the next generation of performing artistes.
Collectively, the festival programme captures the breadth and depth of Indian culture, with talents as diverse as Singapore-based comedian Kumar; Mumbai-based singer-songwriter Armaan Malik, who makes his Singapore debut at this festival; the Indian classical-electronic fusion music band Carnatic 2.0; internationally renowned Kathak exponent Aditi Mangaldas; and the Bengaluru-based Punyah Dance Company.
A play that would resonate with anyone who has got a culture shock is the comedy Fistful of Rupees, written by Shiv Tandan and exploring a young man’s move from sedate Singapore to frenetic Mumbai. Another noteworthy dramatic performance is Twin Murder in the Green Mansion, a “killarious” Tamil comedy presented by Singapore-based theatre company Agam Theatre Lab.
The workshops and masterclasses to be held alongside the Kalaa Utsavam stage performances include the one thing that captures the imagination of every Indian — Bollywood dancing! Based on a blend of classical and folk dance movements, plus a variety of Western influences from Michael Jackson to hip-hop, the choreography of Bollywood dancing is absolutely unique. Two workshops by Singapore-based Royalusion will help participants dip more than their toes into the invigorating waters of this world-conquering India-special dance form.
The festival, which also includes several free performances and talks, has the High Commission of India as its principal sponsor, along with several supporting sponsors. Here is the line-up for Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts 2023 (17 – 26 November, 2023), presented by Esplanade.
TICKETED PROGRAMMES
● Taraana & Carnatic 2.0 – A Double Bill featuring Mahesh Raghvan & Shravan Sridhar; Nandini & Ragini Shankar (India)
Date: 17 Nov 2023; Friday 7.30pm
Venue: Esplanade Concert Hall
This double bill features young classical musicians who put their unique contemporary twists on established musical traditions. Sisters Ragini and Nandini Shankar make up the duo Taraana, as violinists who imbue their music with modern sensibilities. The band Carnatic 2.0, comprising Mahesh Raghvan, Shravan Sridhar, Akshay Anantapadmanabhan, and Sharanya Srinivas, take on an innovative approach and style in music production and performance.
Taraana: Ragini and Nandini fuse elements of timeless Indian classical music with cutting-edge 21st century production punctuated by their violin interplay. They are the eighth generation of musicians in their family. The sisters have their own solo careers, and have performed in numerous prestigious music festivals. Indian at heart, global in spirit, Taraana inspires to make the present moment timeless and joyous. The band includes: Keyboard – Anil Dhumal; Percussion – Kahaan Shah; Tabla – Tanay Rege; Guitar – Samriddha Mohanta; and Bass – Nikhil Nair. Guest artistes include: iPad – Mahesh Raghvan; Mridangam & Konnakkol – Akshay Anantapadmanabhan; and Flute – Lalit Talluri.
Carnatic 2.0: Led by the innovative Mahesh Raghvan, known for his groundbreaking work as a music producer and iPad performer, the band also features the dynamic violin playing of Shravan Sridhar, the soulful vocals of Sharanya Srinivas, and the rhythmic mastery of mridangam player Akshay Anantapadmanabhan. From popular tunes to new-age versions of classic compositions, the band’s performances are always fresh, exciting, and unforgettable. Featured instrumentalists include: Lalit Talluri (Flute); Mylai Karthikeyan (Nadhaswaram); Sunil Kumar (Thavil).
Admission age: 6 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, including 20mins intermission
Tickets: SGD40
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concessions for students, NSFs, seniors and PWDs: SGD32
***
● Naga Mandala by Punyah Dance Company (India)
Date: 17 – 19 Nov 2023; Fri & Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm
Venue: Esplanade Theatre Studio
Adapted from the folk tale Nagamandala by the renowned Indian actor-playwright Girish Karnad, this dance production uses the gigipada technique, where artistes become narrators, actors, and storytellers.
In depicting the chauvinism of rural India, where women still lack a voice, the story revolves around a newlywed couple. The protagonist Rani is sad and lonely because of her husband’s disinterest in her. One day, she is led into a mystic forest where she finds a flower to create a love potion. However, this potion is eventually thrown onto an ant hill and, unbeknownst to Rani, a shape-shifting snake lives in this ant hill. The snake falls in love with Rani and treats her like a queen.
The audience is left with the questions on Rani’s mind. Does she make a choice or let society decide for her? Is the snake now part of her husband, like two sides of the same coin?
The essence of the choreography unfolds in four sections: Suruli (the loop), Hanati (the inner desires), Aakasmika (there are no accidents), and Dwanda (the duality), revealing the emotions of Rani, her husband, and the shape-shifting snake.
Punyah Dance Company is a Bengaluru-based dynamic dance company, headed by Parshwanath Upadhye, and co-headed by Adithya PV and Shruti Gopal. This team of classically trained artistes presents unique and impactful choreography with perfect execution, passion, and grace.
Admission age: 6 & up
Duration: 1hr, no intermission
Tickets: SGD35
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concessions for students, NSFs, seniors and PWDs: SGD28
***
● BARAAT by Euphonic Masala (Singapore)
Date: 17 Nov 2023; Fri 8pm
Esplanade Annexe Studio
Experience the electrifying extravaganza of BARAAT, an exuberant concert that transports the jubilant ambience of an Indian wedding onto the stage. Immerse yourself in a captivating showcase as the exceptionally skilled musicians and vocalists of Euphonic Masala deliver an array of beloved and lively Bollywood hits, alongside the innovative and infectious rhythms of their mash-ups. Plus, delight in select original compositions created exclusively for this concert, ensuring an unforgettable and one-of-a-kind experience.
Having started as a two-member band, Euphonic Masala is a symphony of diverse talents brought together by singer and guitarist Rikin Khanna. Band members include: Ilina; drummer Kevin; keyboardist and rhythm guitarist Divy; percussionist Shalabh; and session bass player Alim Sazali.
Admission age: 6 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD20
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
***
● Armaan Malik – Live in Concert (India)
Date: 18 Nov 2023; Sat 7.30pm
Venue: Esplanade Concert Hall
Young multi-lingual singer-songwriter Armaan Malik has quickly become an international pop icon, having amassed more than 10 billion streams for more than 250 songs in a dozen different languages. In his Singapore debut, Malik is set to stun with his soulful and captivating voice, performing a wide array of hit songs from films as well as original music. Expect to hear beloved tracks such as Pehla Pyaar, Jab Tak, Control, and many more. Don’t miss one of India’s most promising and dynamic performers live at Esplanade!
After cementing his position in the Indian music industry, Malik forayed into the global music circuit with his MTV EMA-winning debut English single, Control, followed by next 2 me, which bagged him a spot-on Billboard’s acclaimed Top Triller Global chart. Malik was the first Indian artiste to perform at the Grammy’s Global Spin, where he sang How Many and You.
Admission age: 6 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD55, SGD85, SGD115, SGD145, SGD175
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct (Cat 1 to 3 only)
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
(Cat 4 & 5 only)
Black, White and Discover (min. 2 tickets) – 10% savings
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct (Cat 1 to 3 only)
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concessions for students, NSFs and seniors: SGD44, SGD68 (Cat 4 & 5 only)
Limited concessions for PWDs: SGD44
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● Four Friends and the Hunter (Singapore) – An Esplanade Production
Date: 18 & 19 Nov 2023; Sat & Sun 11am & 2pm
Venue: Esplanade Recital Studio
A long time ago, in a faraway forest in India, lived four good friends: a deer, a parrot, a turtle, and a rat. One day, a hunter shows up looking for his next target. They try their best to stay out of his sight, but one of them gets caught! How will they save their friend? What will they do?
Inspired by Panchatantra, a collection of ancient Indian animal fables, this heart-warming story about strength in unity takes you on a journey filled with music, movement, and merrymaking. Directed by Rani Kanna and Kalah Rajes Kannan; and scripted by Aishwariyah Shanmuganathan. Performed in English.
Recommended for: Age 4 & up
Admission age: 1 & up
Duration: 45mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD25
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
PIP’s Club – 20% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct
PIP’s Club – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
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● The Great Indian Mix – Kumar Spills the Tea – An Esplanade Commission
Date: 24 Nov 2023, Fri 8pm
Venue: Esplanade Theatre
Step into the riotous world of Kumar, one of Singapore’s most iconic comedians, as he takes centre-stage at Esplanade with his uproarious new show, The Great Indian Mix.
This comedic journey is about Indian people, traditions, idiosyncrasies, and the hilariously relatable nuances of being Indian, no matter where in the world you might be. From the melodious songs of Bollywood to the spicy tales of South Indian masalas, Kumar is going to spill the tea about the quirks and complexities of the Indian experience.
Expect a rollercoaster of laughter as Kumar touches on everything from family dynamics, wedding extravaganzas, superstitions and festive frenzies to the age-old tussle between traditional values and modern aspirations — all served with a side of sharp social commentary and Kumar’s signature wit. Performed in English.
Admission age: 16 & up
Advisory 16: Some mature content and coarse language
Duration: 1hr 30mins, including 20mins intermission
Tickets: SGD50, SGD70, SGD90, SGD105
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct (Cat 1 & 2 only)
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
(Cat 3 & 4 only)
Black, White and Discover (min. 2 tickets) – 10% savings
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct (Cat 1 & 2 only)
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concessions for students, NSFs and seniors: SGD40, SGD56 (Cat 3 & 4 only)
Limited concessions for PWDs: SGD40
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● FORBIDDEN by Aditi Mangaldas (India) – An Esplanade Co-Commission
Date: 24 & 25 Nov 2023; Fri & Sat 8pm
Venue: Singtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade
Through this powerful new solo work, acclaimed dancer and choreographer Aditi Mangaldas explores the fear and taboos associated with female sexual desire that have been historically and culturally inculcated. She poses the question: why are women the world over sanctioned, judged, controlled, hounded and punished when they find the courage to embrace their own desires, in both conservative and liberal societies?
The work is presented in three parts — Awakening roots itself in the words dreams, fragrant flower, and cage; Playing the Game explores denial, adornment, seduction, and rage; and Burning is about “consigning to flames all that is FORBIDDEN”.
Drawing from a gamut of cultures and expressing through her practice of contemporary dance based on Kathak, Aditi traverses a spectrum of emotion and states of being, reclaiming and owning her desire.
Co-commissioned by: Sadler’s Wells, London; National Centre for the Performing Arts, Mumbai; Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Singapore.
Recommended for: Age 16 & up
Admission age: 13 & up
Duration: 1hr, no intermission
Tickets: SGD40
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concessions for students, NSFs, seniors and PWDs: SGD32
***
● Fistful of Rupees by Stone Paper Stories (India)
Date: 24 – 26 Nov 2023; Fri & Sat 7.30pm, Sun, 3pm
Venue: Esplanade Recital Studio
Raghav moves to Mumbai without much of a plan, throwing himself headfirst into the ruckus. After living in quiet and orderly Singapore for many years, Mumbai comes as quite a shock. Everything feels heightened, louder, brighter, impossible to ignore. He fights the absurd loneliness of the crowded city with lots of laughter, and some bravery.
Incisive and candid with dashes of absurdity, Fistful of Rupees considers the idea of what it means to truly arrive in this expansive and yet tiny world. Flitting between grim realism and outright absurdist humour, the play is both an ode to Mumbai’s overpowering personality as well as a heartfelt journey of a young person navigating opportunity and despair with equal earnestness.
Fistful of Rupees was written by artiste and theatre maker Shiv Tandan, inspired by his own real-life experiences. The play was featured at Tata LitLive! Mumbai Literature Festival 2018 and, in the same year, was named runner-up at the International Sultan Padamsee Playwriting Awards, one of the most sought-after awards for English language dramatists in India. Performed in Hindi and English with English surtitles.
Admission age: 16 up
Advisory 16: Some mature content and coarse language
Duration: 1hr 15mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD35
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special:
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Esplanade & Me Special:
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concessions for students, NSFs, seniors and PWDs: SGD28
***
● பச்சபங்களாரெட்டரகாலடா (Twin Murder in the Green Mansion) by Agam Theatre Lab (Singapore) – An Esplanade Co-Production
Date: 24 – 26 Nov 2023; Fri 8pm, Sat 3pm & 8pm, Sun 3pm
Venue: Esplanade Theatre Studio
Enjoy some killarious chaos at the Green Mansion! “Break a leg!” takes on a whole new meaning for a woefully misguided troupe of players at the Chutney Drama Society’s opening night performance of Pachae Bungalaa, Rettae Kolaedaa. An unconscious leading lady, a corpse who cannot play dead, a ruffled detective, and a word-mangling butler (among others) must battle against technical gaffes, forgotten lines, and sabotaging scenery in a quest to arrive all in one piece at the final curtain call.
Part Monty Python, part Sherlock Holmes, all mayhem, this disastrously delightful whodunit will leave you in stitches! Twin Murder in the Green Mansion is inspired by the British play, The Play That Goes Wrong. Produced by Subramanian Ganesh, and directed by Subramanian Ganesh and Karthikeyan Somasundram. Performed in Tamil with English surtitles.
Established in 2019 by Ganesh and a collective of drama enthusiasts, Agam Theatre Lab is one of Singapore’s newest additions to the evolving landscape of homegrown theatre. Agam’s contribution includes cultivating trained theatre practitioners, showcasing high quality productions, and growing an audience base beyond the Tamil-speaking public.
Admission age: 6 & up
Advisory: This production contains strobe lights, haze and smoke
Duration: 2hrs, including 15mins intermission
Tickets: SGD35
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concessions for students, NSFs, seniors and PWDs: SGD28
Student Special: SGD22 (Limited capacity)
Tote Board Arts Grant: All Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Schools may use the Tote Board Arts Grant to subsidise up to 50% of the programme cost.
For more details, please contact Esplanade Box Office at 6828 8389 or e-mail boxoffice@esplanade.com
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● Sean Roldan Live featuring Sathyaprakash & Kalyani Nair (India)
Date: 25 Nov 2023; Sat 7.30pm
Venue: Esplanade Concert Hall
A trailblazer in the Tamil indie music scene, Sean Roldan has made his mark with his cutting-edge compositions for some of the finest films over the past decade. With hints of blues, jazz and contemporary Indian sounds, Sean’s band — Sean Roldan & Friends — presents a uniquely inspired set curated specially for Kalaa Utsavam, featuring two incredible singing talents, Sathyaprakash and Kalyani Nair. Performed in Tamil.
Raghavendra, better known by his stage name Sean Roldan, is an Indian singer and music composer who composes for both independent and feature films. He mainly works in the Tamil film industry and made his debut with Vaayai Moodi Pesavum (2014).
Admission age: 6 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD40, SGD60, SGD80
Esplanade & Me Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct (Cat 1 & 2 only)
Black & White – 15% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct (Cat 1 & 2 only)
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concession for students, NSFs, seniors and PWDs: SGD32 (Cat 3 only)
***
● When Chai Met Toast – Love You the Same Tour (India)
Date: 26 Nov 2023; Sun 7.30pm
Venue: Singtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade
When Chai Met Toast is a four-piece indie-folk alternative band from Cochin, Kerala. Formed in 2016, the quartet officially came into being with its debut EP Joy of Little Things (2017), drawing upon multi-lingual lyrics and infectious sing-along choruses. The band was propelled into the wider international arena with its full-length album When We Feel Young (2021), with the title track of the same name becoming a hit song.
In 2022, the band released the EP Love You The Same, recorded in London with producer Richard Wilkinson, a record that explores love and heartbreak. The band has been touring extensively with this release, its compelling live performances taking it around the globe. Performed in English.
Admission age: 6 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD40
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
Black & White – 20% savings
Discover – 15% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Esplanade & Me Special: From 3 Oct
Black – 15% savings
White – 10% savings
Discover – 10% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Limited concessions for students, NSFs, seniors and PWDs: SGD32
***
WORKSHOPS AND MASTERCLASSES
● Creating Music Beyond Boundaries – Mahesh Raghvan and Shravan Sridhar (India)
Date: 16 Nov 2023; Thu 8pm
Venue: Esplanade Annexe Studio
Join acclaimed music producer Mahesh Raghvan and violinist Shravan Sridhar for an exhilarating music production workshop! As members of the band Carnatic 2.0, renowned for their captivating fusion of Carnatic and electronic music, they bring a unique perspective to the art of music creation.
In this workshop, Mahesh and Shravan will guide participants through the entire process of music production, from inception to the final masterpiece. Discover the intricate layers, innovative ideas, and diverse approaches that shape a song. Gain invaluable insights into presenting music on stage and witness firsthand how music comes to life through captivating demonstrations.
Mahesh will also showcase his mastery of the Geoshred iPad app, a tool that has become synonymous with his artistic expression. Do not miss out on this opportunity to learn and elevate your music production skills. Conducted in English.
Admission age: 13 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD20
Enjoy 10% savings on workshop ticket with purchase of Taranaa & Carnatic 2.0 – A Double Bill performance ticket (see list of ‘Ticketed programmes’).
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● Bollywood Dance Workshop by Royalusion (Singapore)
Date: 18 Nov 2023; Sat 11am
Venue: Esplanade Annexe Studio
Get your body moving and grooving in this basic Bollywood dance workshop by Royalusion. Learn the basics of Bollywood dance and be guided to add you own flair to the routine! Workshop conducted in English.
Royalusion is a Singapore-based dance company founded in 2021. With a strong emphasis on diversity, Royalusion takes flight as a performing arts crew that conceptualises choreographies for a multitude of events.
Admission age: 13 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD15
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
Black, White & Discover – 50% (limited tickets)
***
● Bollywood Dance Parent-Child Workshop by Royalusion (Singapore)
Date: 19 Nov 2023; Sun 11am
Venue: Esplanade Annexe Studio
Bond with your little ones by learning the basics of Bollywood dance and add your own flair to your final routine. Conducted in English.
Recommended age: 6 & up
Admission age: 4 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD15 per ticket
Esplanade & Me Early Bird Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
PIP’s Club: 50% savings (min. 2 tickets. Limited tickets)
Tickets sold at SGD30 per parent & child pair, or SGD45 (1 adult + 2 children, or 2 adults + 1 child)
Accompanying adult must be at least 16 years old
***
● Mandala Dot Painting Parent-Child Workshop by Little Dots and Dashes (Singapore)
Date: 26 Nov 2023; Sun 11am
Venue: Esplanade Studio 219
The mandala — meaning “circle” in Sanskrit — is a design that originated from Hindu and Buddhist cultures, one that has endured and remained relevant centuries after it was first created. This art form uses circles and other geometric designs to represent the essence of life, and draws a focal point for concentration through its repetitiveness and vibrant play of colours.
Founded by educator and trainer Uma Maheswary, Little Dots and Dashes will showcase and teach mandala dot painting through a contemporary lens. Come enjoy this meditative practice and take home your own clay lamp at the end of the workshop. Conducted in English.
Uma is a Singaporean social entrepreneur, trainer and educator formerly from the RSAF. Her advocacy for mandala dot painting stemmed from her personal experiences during the pandemic. Realising its potential, this therapeutic and meditative art form has evolved into a meaningful exercise for wellness and team-building.
Admission age: 6 & up
Duration: 1hr 30mins, no intermission
Tickets: SGD15
Esplanade & Me Special: 19 Sep – 2 Oct
PIP’s Club – 20% savings (min. 2 tickets)
Tickets sold at SGD30 per parent & child pair, or SGD45 (1 adult + 2 children, or 2 adults + 1 child)
Accompanying adult must be at least 16 years old
***
FREE PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
● Royalusion
Date: 17 Nov 2023, Fri
Venue: Festival opening at 6.45pm at Esplanade Courtyard
Concourse: 7.15pm & 8.15pm
Experience a dynamic and interactive journey through India’s diverse and exuberant dances! Explore the evolution of the different dance styles that have been reimagined through a modern lens.
Duration: 30mins, no intermission
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● Amit Dhamelia and Ensemble
Date: 17 Nov 2023, Fri 7pm, 8.15pm & 9.30pm
Venue: DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade
Join singer Amit Dhamelia and his ensemble as they take the audience on a musical journey through evergreen Hindi numbers from the yesteryears to the latest popular hits. Amit Dhamelia is a seasoned musician, having over 40 years of performing experience and 3,000 performances to his name.
Duration: 45mins, no intermission
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● Indian Classical Music Open call – Solo/Duet
Date: 24 – 26 Nov 2023; Fri – Sun, Various timings
Venue: Concourse
For the third year running, Kalaa Utsavam presents the Indian Classical Music Open Call, a platform to feature up-and-coming young talents from Carnatic and Hindustani musical traditions. Open to both solo and duets of individuals aged 16 to 28 years.
Selected participants will be mentored by acclaimed Carnatic violinist R K Shriramkumar and Hindustani vocalist Ashwini Bhide. At the end of the mentorship, the artistes will get a chance to showcase their talents at the Esplanade Concourse during the festival.
Duration: 30 mins, no intermission
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● Stem Dance Kampni
Date: 24 & 25 Nov 2023; Fri & Sat 7pm & 8.30pm
Venue: DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade
Stem Dance Kampni is one of India’s best-recognised dance companies, known for its high quality, cutting edge and dynamic performances. It has toured over 36 countries with its diverse repertoire of both contemporary and traditional choreographies. The brainchild of award-winning choreographer and arts entrepreneur Madhu Nataraj, Stem Dance Kampni emerged in 1995 with the aim of creating its own versatile dance vocabulary.
Duration: 45 mins, no intermission
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● Kerala Drum Keychain making workshop (in collaboration with the Indian Heritage Centre)
Date: 18 & 19 Nov 2023; Sat & Sun 1.30pm – 5.30pm
Venue: Concourse
In collaboration with Singapore’s Indian Heritage Centre (IHC), this craft workshop spotlights the chandamelam, an important percussion instrument for the Malayalee community used in auspicious ceremonies. Participants will be guided through this workshop to make their own drum key chain, which they can carry with them after the festival.
This first collaboration with IHC marks the start of a longer relationship between two of Singapore’s key cultural institutions, in celebrating and sharing the rich histories and heritage of Indian culture.
