Indian Classical Inspires American Choreographer Robert Moses

BANGALORE: Renowned American choreographer Robert Moses, who tries to bridge racial and cultural difference with dance, has said that he finds Indian classical dance inspiring for his contemporary dance group.

"Indian classical dance is at the core of tradition. It is very strong and inspiring," Moses who runs the Robert Moses' Kin Dance Company (RMK) in San Francisco told PTI during his India tour.

Besides Kolkata, he alongwith his team went to New Delhi and Chandigarh where they studied the nuances of Indian classical dance and interacted with local artists.

For city artists, they conducted a workshop recently at the American Center titled 'Dancing to Connect' with a focus on skill building as well as nurturing a sense of empowerment and self-esteem.

While meeting with local artists Moses expanded on how RMK uses movement as the medium through which race, class, culture and gender are used to voice the existence of greater potential and unfulfilled possibilities.

Through dance, they can better understand common humanity by appreciating and exploring cultures.

They also shared various tools for creating that extra spark that turns ordinary performances into extraordinary.

American Center Director J J Joria said, "Cultural exchange serves to connect us all. The Robert Moses Dance Company has the ability to connect with the audience through their love of dance and the audiences are bound to embrace this multi-cultural group and their diverse backgrounds".

While creating over 90 original works, RKM has earned a host of awards, including four Isadora Duncan Awards (IZZIES).