We have said often, here in TheLab™, that the solo is perhaps one of the most difficult tasks a professional dancer can undertake, especially when you are performing four solos all by different dance makers in the same evening.
Step forward Aakash Odedra who takes on the work of Akram Khan, Russell Maliphant and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui alongside one of his own pieces.
What emerges is a diverse mix of ideas and movement styles all channeled through one dancer.
The company say this much about the work;
Aakash Odedra Company is a new venture led by performer and artistic director, Aakash Odedra intended as a vehicle for his own choreographic work. Trained initially in the classical Indian styles of Kathak and Bharatanatyam, Aakash has performed with a diverse range of local and international artists. He has been the recipient of several awards including a bursary by Akademi to develop his choreographic skills and a professional development grant that allowed him to travel and train in New York, Europe and India. Aakash was invited by Akram Khan to perform a solo choreographed by Kumudini Lakhia at Sadler’s Wells. The piece was commissioned by Akram Khan Charitable Trust and Sadler’s Wells and subsequently, Aakash was invited to join Akram Khan Company for the R&D phase of ‘Vertical Road’. ‘Rising’ is the first work to be presented by the company.
Our video feature includes footage from all four works along with an interview with Mr Odedra himself where he discusses the arduos task of putting this programme together.
Contnued touring details are vague at present but keep an eye on the company’s website for more information.
‘Rising’ is performed by Aakash Odedra with choreography by Alkram Khan, Russel Maliphant, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and Aakash Odedra.
Filmed at The Patrick Centre, Birmingham on November 2nd, 2012. This video feature was funded in part by Arts Council England.