ABHIPSAA
A Seeking (2021)
In ABHIPSAA — a seeking, Bijayini Satpathy calls upon deep kinetic and emotional insights to evolve a revered cultural artform in an astonishing solo exploration. Comprised of three distinct original dances, ABHIPSAA charts a journey of discovery in physical, emotional, and spiritual realms. In this evening-length choreographic debut, Satpathy expands the parameters of the formal and representational norms of the Odissi tradition through both narrative and non-narrative dances - reimagining classical Odissi forms through modern interpretation. Commissioned by Duke University and the Baryshnikov Arts Center, ABHIPSAA - a seeking, takes the audience on a profoundly personal journey. In collaboration with musicians, composers, lighting and theatrical designers, Satpathy’s performance is an otherworldly and transformative experience. A selection of the piece was presented virtually by the Baryshnikov Arts Center with introduction by Mikhail Baryshnikov and Mark Morris in February 2021 and the full piece had its world premiere performances at Duke University in December 2021. This work was made possible with additional funding from the New England Foundation for the Arts' National Dance Project, with lead funding from the Doris Duke Foundation and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. ABHIPSAA — a seeking is available for appearances worldwide.
MUSIC
1. Vibhanga, broken & rebuilt
Based on Sri Lalgudi Jayaraman’s Desh Thillana
Concept & Choreography - Bijayini Satpathy
Original Composition of Prelude & Melodic Arrangement and Flute - Srinibas Satapathy
Rhythm Composition - Dhaneswar Swain & Bijayini Satpathy
Singer - Bindhumalini Narayanaswamy
Mardala - Shivshankar Satapathy and Budhanath Swain
Violin - Agnimitra Behera
Manjira - Shivshankar Satapathy
Rhythm Recitation - Bijayini Satpathy
2. Virahī, in longing
Based on Pt Raghunath Panigrahi’s original song composition of Ashtapadi from 12th Century poet Jayadeva’s Geet Govind
Concept & Choreography - Bijayini Satpathy
Original Composition of Prelude & Melodic Arrangement and Flute - Srinibas Satapathy
Singer - Bindhumalini Narayanaswamy
Rhythm Composition, Mardala and Manjira - Shivshankar Satapathy
Violin - Agnimitra Behera
3. Vimukthī, the final dance
Based on Nirgun Poem of Mystic Poet Saint Kabir
Concept & Choreography - Bijayini Satpathy
Original Composition and Singer - Bindhumalini Narayanaswamy
Rhythm Composition - Pramath Kiran, Dhaneswar Swain
Percussions (Djembe, Tabla, Khol, Kanjira, Talking Drum, Morsing & Rhythm Pad) - Pramath Kiran
Rhythm Recitation - Bijayini Satpathy & Pramath Kiran
CREDITS
BIJAYINI SATPATHY - Artistic Director, Choreographer, Performer
SRINIBAS SATAPATHY - Composer of melodic developments and arrangements of Vibhanga, Virahi
BINDHUMALINI NARAYANASWAMY - Composer of Vimukthi
SUJAY SAPLE - Director of Stage and Lighting Design
GULAM RASOOL - Master Tailor
CLAUDIA NORMAN - Manager and Producer
ELAINE LIPCAN - Tour Strategy Consultant
MASOOM PARMAR - Co-ordinator
Photo credit: Shalini Jain, Arun Kumar
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