Optics – A Dance Film
Choreographed and Conceived by: Anjana Bala
Dramaturgy and Rehearsal Direction: Nandita Shankardass
Anjana Bala’s film commission from the AHRC titled “Optics”, explores the illusionary quality that emphasises the light and overlooks or forgets what remains in the shadows.
This piece draws inspiration from the growing association of “optics” with self-worth and social capital.
“I have worked with Nandita both when she was a rehearsal director and dramaturg for my own work and then as a dance artist in her own choreography.
I cannot recommend her enough – her attention to detail, precision, and intellectual prowess is wholly evident throughout working with her. Pieces she works on come alive as she is able to layer and find many meanings, allowing the piece to be extremely specific to convey a clear message but also broad and ambiguous enough for people to be able to take back what is important to them.
But what sets Nandita apart is how kind, caring, and positive she is throughout the whole process. Despite all her amazing qualifications, she is so humble and will make you feel at ease in your choreographic process. She will allow you to be yourself and bring your whole self into your piece. And you will feel encouraged to do this! Her positive energy is incredible and will elevate any process! I recommend her fully for any artistic consultation.”
Anjana Bala – Dance artist and Choreographer
Bird
Singer and Performer: Sabiyha
Movement Direction & Dramaturgy: Nandita Shankardass
“I got in touch with Nandita through previous experience of working with her. I had co composed a piece for ‘In Other Words’ and thought she was a mesmerising dancer! Such ease, grace and thoughtfulness in her movement and it was very inspiring to watch.
I am a singer songwriter and was putting together a music video in which I wanted to incorporate dance to express the meaning of the song. I contacted Nandita to help me figure out a loose routine in which I could improvise within it and become confident with my movement.The experience was brilliant. We discussed the meaning of the song, broke down the intentions and emotions and really got to the core of it. This truly helped the piece come together and flow in a beautiful way. She also helped me express myself and move with confidence which is something I’ve always struggled with; being comfortable and confident within my body. But I felt at ease and in a safe space with Nandita, which is integral to the process.
I also physically struggle with sciatica and have for a long time, however, Nandita showed me how to improve my posture and the way I walk in order to help that pull in my leg. Since then, I barely get any pain from my sciatica.
Nandita responds to music in such an emotive way, it really resounded with me and made the experience individual to me. So grateful for it and to have that time with such an incredible dancer with a wonderful soul.”
Sabiyha – Singer Songwriter
Unfold Me
Choreography: Mithun Gill For Emerge Festival
Movement Direction and Dramaturgy: Nandita Shankardass
“I have had the pleasure to share the stage with Nandita, watch her beautifully perform her own work and be in a creative space together.
I approached Nandita for her expertise, to help guide me through the process of creating my solo work ‘Unfold Me’ to be premiered at the Emerge Festival 2020.
This was at very short notice but she selflessly agreed and went above and beyond.
Not only with great words of encouragement but as an excellent movement director she really understood the needs and purpose of the work.
She has an ability to make you think and reach deeper whilst questioning yourself for the betterment of your own craft and work.
It was easy to communicate which allowed trust to be built in the space as it was a very personal subject matter. Nandita is an incredible artist and generously gives in all aspects of her creative self. It was a great pleasure to share the space with her, hopefully we can create and dance together again soon. Always grateful.”
Mithun Gill – Kathak / Contemporary performing artist
Unfold Me
Choreography: Mithun Gill For Emerge Festival
Movement Direction and Dramaturgy: Nandita Shankardass
“I have had the pleasure to share the stage with Nandita, watch her beautifully perform her own work and be in a creative space together.
I approached Nandita for her expertise, to help guide me through the process of creating my solo work ‘Unfold Me’ to be premiered at the Emerge Festival 2020.
This was at very short notice but she selflessly agreed and went above and beyond.
Not only with great words of encouragement but as an excellent movement director she really understood the needs and purpose of the work.
She has an ability to make you think and reach deeper whilst questioning yourself for the betterment of your own craft and work.
It was easy to communicate which allowed trust to be built in the space as it was a very personal subject matter. Nandita is an incredible artist and generously gives in all aspects of her creative self. It was a great pleasure to share the space with her, hopefully we can create and dance together again soon. Always grateful.”
Mithun Gill – Kathak / Contemporary performing artist
