Sonnet of Samsara
The city as the stage
We were honoured to be a key collaborator in Sonnet of Samsara, an immersive and visually stunning site-specific promenade performance that explored existential cycles through movement, hand-painted silks, and cultural narratives. This powerful production seamlessly adapted to diverse landscapes, integrating local stories with universal themes, and resonated deeply with audiences through its evocative storytelling and environmental consciousness.
Curated by Jayachandran Palazhy of Attakkalari Centre of Movement Arts, Sonnet of Samsara was showcased in Bangalore and at the Serendipity Arts Festival in Goa, with support from the British Council. The performance served as a striking allegory of worldly pursuits and karmic existence, drawing inspiration from traditional and contemporary artistic expressions to create a deeply immersive experience.
The silks
Central to this production was the integration of hand-painted silks, which became an extension of the movement itself—flowing, transforming, and shaping the spatial narrative. The silks were the result of an extensive cross-cultural collaboration, co-created with local communities in Bangalore (2023) and Wandsworth (2024). These textiles carried the essence of their makers, reflecting both environmental themes and cultural heritage, making them not just props but storytellers in their own
Looking Ahead
Our creative journey with Sonnet of Samsara is set to culminate in London’s Borough of Culture celebrations in Wandsworth this September. This final phase will showcase the evolution of the project, bringing together diverse cultural influences and artistic expressions in a grand culmination.
Through Sonnet of Samsara, we have witnessed the power of artistic collaboration in bridging cultures, transforming spaces, and offering profound reflections on the human experience. This project stands as a testament to the potential of interdisciplinary and cross-cultural partnerships in shaping meaningful and impactful art.
Courtesy of Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts, Bangalore, India 2024
Lead Image: Ali Pretty, Kinetika and Jayachandran Palazhy of Attakkalari Centre of Movement Arts (c) Serendipity Arts Festival, Goa, India, 2024