Katha Dance Theatre (KDT) is excited to present the world premiere of Shaamya – Of Equality – their latest collaboration between choreographer Rita Mustaphi, KDT’s Artistic Director, and composer J.D. Steele – at the Park Square Theatre in St. Paul, MN on November 19-21, 2021.
Inspired by the poetry of writer and activist Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976) and using a mixture of multicultural dance, music, and spoken word poetry, the show juxtaposes past and present fights for racial, cultural and gender equity.
Equality will be set to a live rendition of original compositions by Twin Cities musical legend J.D. Steele, who will be accompanied by pianist Billy Steele and vocalist Jevetta Steele, as well as drum artist Abhinav Sharma. It will also include poetic contributions by Somali poet and playwright Ifrah Mansour, who will perform her acclaimed poem “I am a Refugee” onstage alongside Mustaphi and Steele.
In addition to KDT’s Kathak dance ensemble, contributions from dancers of multiethnic backgrounds will fill out the show, including ballet, flamenco, tap, and hip-hop.
Runtime: 80 minutes. Tickets are available here.