Indian New Zealander Australian (that was a mouthful) Swaroopa Prameela is setting a challenge for those in Perth who love watching stage performances and dance – she wants to invite everyone into her world of Mohiniyattam and Bharatanatyam titled I Am…..

I Am… is an evocative journey into the world of Mohiniyattam and Bharatanatyam, where Prameela brings her first full-length performance to Perth, featuring choreographies never seen in the city. Prameela states that I Am… is a mesmerising performance that celebrates two iconic South Indian classical dance forms. Mohiniyattam, noted for its fluidity and grace, and Bharatanatyam, known for its rhythm and storytelling.

“When I lived in New Zealand, I have been part of major dance festivals and other events. Since moving to Perth, it is like I am starting all from scratch, and I think this is what Mohiniyattam and Bharatanatyam – starting fresh”, Prameela expressed.

“These two dance forms forms who I am, and this performance is an exploration of my practice and my journey in embracing the culture and tradition behind these dance forms”.

Prameela’s carefully curated sequences bring these ancient dance forms to life, while reflecting on their continued relevance in contemporary times. The inclusion of Desi choreographies adds yet another layer of depth to her work. Talking about work and life, Prameela spoke about how dance has formed who she is as a child and as an adult.

“You know, I started dancing when I was only four years old. At the time, my parents made me join these dance form classes and that was it for me. Traditional dance has really formed my routine and who I am as a person. I was in dance productions and even represented my school in competitions – so really dance was my equilibrium – it has made me whole and I want to share that with everyone”.

The question of identity was posed to Prameela – how much of it has inspired her to make dance her love and passion, and how much of it forms part of her I Am… performance. From the title of her performance, it is almost a sure thing that it is a prominent trait – although, it was interesting to hear Prameela discuss this in light of how it impacts on her dance from routines.

“Identity has definitely structured my performance, and it has definitely opened my mind about choreography and explore some of the topics I show through my dance. My journey from India to New Zealand and now to Australia have been major leaps of faith and each place has given me different experiences”, Prameela discussed.

“I haven’t been in Australia as long as I was in New Zealand, but I feel that there are so many cultures flowing through me – even from this journey across the sea. I guess I am more of a global citizen and that is how I explore my identity and how I convey my message through my dance”.

Interested in checking I Am… out? Well if you live in Perth or will be in Perth on Saturday, November 9th – check it out. Here are the event details:

Event details: I AM... 6.30pm, Saturday 9 November @ Subiaco Arts Centre. Tickets: $30/$25/$15 – please click here or go to this link for tickets and more details-https://www.artsculturetrust.wa.gov.au/venues/subiaco-arts-centre/whats-on/i-am-by-swaroopa-prameela-unni

Images provided.