Two classical Indian dancers will perform Bharatanatyam at the “Joy of Giving” performance at the Bayonne Library on December 19 from 6 to 7 p.m. The performance will include five dance pieces, including an “invitation piece” that will welcome the audience to join, and another set to violinist Lindsay Sterling’s rendition of “Carol of the Bells.”
Bharatanatyam is one of seven classical dance forms from India and perhaps the most iconic in the Americas. The dance form, usually solo and performed by a woman, is historically based in ancient Hindu.
“Bharatanatyam” comes from several words. ‘Bharata,’ a mnemonic word meaning emotion, feelings, melody, and rhythm. ‘Natyam’ in Sanskrit means “dance.”
“Dance is a form of expression for me. I come out in a very full form,” said one of the dancers organizing the performance, Krishnapriya Ramamoorthy, of Bayonne. Ramamoorthy was an English teacher in India before moving to Hudson County and is now pursuing Bharatanatyam full time. Karthiga Devi, another trained Bharatanatyam dancer, will join her.
“It’s important for everyone to learn dance. In terms of how you understand certain kinds of emotions, it enables you to express yourself fully,” said Ramamoorthy. “This classical dance form being so close to home, people have to see it because it’s a very beautiful way of expression.”
Indian snacks and tea will be served.
