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Contemporary British Dance Invades the Southland in 'Vertical Road'
photo of Akram Khan Company courtesy of the artist
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Performing both in Los Angeles at Royce Hall this weekend and in Irvine at the more intimate Barclay Theater next Wednesday, the London-based Akram Khan Company reveals what promotional materials call an "epic" work of movement art. "Vertical Road" is presented by the newly-created and adventurous Center for the Art of Performance at UCLA and the contemporary dance series at the Orange County venue. This "enthralling meditation on man's journey from gravity to grace" includes a cast of eight internationally-drawn dancers moving to an original score by fellow Brit Nitin Sawhney.Inspired by the Sufi tradition and the Persian poet and philosopher Rumi, classically trained Kathak dancer and now world renown choreographer Khan "explores man's earthly nature, his rituals and the consequences of human actions" in this 2010 70-minute work.
Describing his intentions in the creation of the piece, Khan quietly states: "Purity, simplicity and honesty." From what this writer remembers of his previous work and that's also evident in the current production trailer, there's some outstanding dancing going on, as well. Reviewed to high acclaim across the planet, this ferocious ensemble brought the artist to the Opening Ceremonies of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, where Khan choreographed and performed in the globally-witnessed event (even though our national television coverage decided not to broadcast it).
So, here he comes to town with the collaborating artists that know him best, and we have three opportunities to take it in. "Vertical Road" runs Friday, October 5, and Saturday, October 6, at Royce Hall at 8 p.m. both nights. Tickets cost between $20-$55 ($15 for UCLA students) and can be purchased online here and here. Tickets for the Wednesday, October 10, show at the Barclay Theatre cost between $16 and $100 and can be purchased here.
Check out the teaser below and spin your way south or westward to feel the welcome breeze.
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