Leela Dance Collective Presents ReSound A 5-Day Celebration of Kathak Dance

Founded in 2016 by senior disciples of kathak (pronounced cut – tuck) master Pandit Chitresh Das, Leela Dance Collective is based in both San Francisco and Los Angeles and holds the unique position as the only one of its kind Indian-American dance company, has just announced ReSound, a 5-day celebration of kathak dance with free performances and $10 workshops taking place in multiple sites throughout Los Angeles September 22 – 25, 2021.

ReSound was conceived and arranged by Rina Mehta , senior disciple of kathak legend Pandit Chitresh Das and cofounder of Leela Dance Collective, and will feature original compositions and choreography, in addition to a new generation of emerging kathak dancers trained in his iconic style – Sonali Toppur, Ahana Mukherjee, Carrie McCune, and Ria DasGupta.

Having performed nationally and internationally, Leela Dance Collective is best known for it acclaimed works SPEAK, a wonderful kathak and tap collaboration, and Son of the Wind, a theatrical dance drama based on the Ramayana. The company’s arts education programs introduces K-12 and university students to the long and glorious artistic traditions of Indian dance.

Rina Mehta – Photo by Marissa Roseillier

“After more than a year of living in fear and isolation, we are thrilled to see our neighborhoods and communities start to come back to life. To do our part, we are quite literally dancing with joy – on street corners and promenades and at community parks and outdoor malls across the L.A. region. We hope you’ll join us!” – Rina Mehta

ReSound will provide an opportunity for audiences to experience kathak dance from the courts of Medieval India. The 5-day celebration offers free performances and $10 workshops designed to educate and inspire everyone. The company’s goal is “to bring this vibrant artform to local communities, giving them the opportunity to experience the joy of kathak dance”.

The free street performances will take place at Santa Monica’s 3rd St Promenade, DTLA’s Grand Park, Venice Beach, Pasadena’s Memorial Park, Culver City’s Town Plaza, and the Oak Park Amphitheatre. Audiences will experience kathak dance at its best, including percussive footwork, swift pirouettes, dynamic repertoire, and exhilarating music. Workshops are held at some of LA’s most popular studios including Evolution Studios, Electric Lodge, and The Vault.

Schedule of free performances

Friday, Sept 24, 12:30 p.m.: Grand Park, DTLA

Friday, Sept 24, 4:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.: The Village, Woodland Hills

Saturday, Sept 25, 11:30 a.m.: Venice Beach

Saturday, Sept 25, 1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.: 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica

Saturday, Sept 25, 5:30 p.m.: Memorial Park, Pasadena

(featuring performance by Leela Youth Dance Company)

Saturday, Sept 26, 11:30 a.m.: Oak Park Amphitheatre, Oak Park

(part of the Kathak Karnival featuring family activities and performance by Leela Youth Dance Company)

Saturday, Sept 26, 5:30 p.m.: Town Plaza, Culver City

Workshops – $10

Before Bollywood: Wed, Sept 22, 7-8 p.m., The Vault Dance Studio, 57 Palmetto Dr, Pasadena Before Bollywood there was kathak, known for its grandeur, beauty, and elegance. Join us for a workshop that introduces you to the movement, music and expression of this dynamic art form. Students of all levels and backgrounds are welcome.

Bare Feet Beats: Thurs, Sept 23, 7- p.m., Evolution Dance Studios, 10816 Burbank Blvd, NoHo

Dive into the dynamic world of kathak. Move, groove, jam and slam as you learn how to make rhythm and music with your bare feet. Students of all levels and backgrounds are welcome.

From Sensuality to Spirituality: Sat, Sept 25, 10-11 a.m., Electric Lodge, 1416 Electric Ave, Venice

Radha is one of India’s most beloved goddesses. Her love, devotion and yearning for Krishna is a metaphor for our relationship to the divine. As we explore Radha’s love for Krishna through the art of kathak, classical dance of North India we explore the eternal human search for the divine. Students of all levels and backgrounds are welcome.

The Indian Avatars: Sun, Sept 26, 12-1 p.m., Oak Park Amphitheater, 5600 Hollytree Dr, Oak Park

In this workshop, kids are introduced to kathak, classical dance of North India. Kids learn coordination, movement rhythm, music and dramatic expression as they delve into the rich world of Indian mythology. For kids, ages 5 and up. Part of the Kathak Karnival featuring additional family activities.

Movement, Music & Meditation: Sun, Sept 26, 3-4 p.m., Diaz Studio of Dance, 3816 Culver Ctr, Culver City

Discover the beauty and dynamism of kathak. Workshop participants are introduced to the technique, movement, music and poetry of the art form woven together into an experience that is meditation in motion.

The Indian Avatars: Sun, Sept 26, 4-5 p.m., Diaz Studio of Dance, 3816 Culver Blvd, Culver City

Family Festival – $10

Kathak Karnival: Sun, Sept 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Oak Park Amphitheater, 5600 Hollytree Dr, Oak Park

The Kathak Karnival invites children and youth of all ages to a day of dance, music, food and fun! Admission includes access to kathak workshops for children and youth and all carnival activities including face painting, photo contests, games, gift giveaways, and more. Don’t miss the highlight of the carnival – exclusive performances by the Leela Dance Collective and the newly founded Leela Youth Dance Company! Free parking included with the admission fee.