Jun 12 2019, 12:29 PMAudiences, Birmingham, Classical, Company Classes, Dance, Dastaan, Drama, Festival, Kathak, Kathakaars, Lok Virsa, Music, Sonia Sabri Company, Workshops, Young People

Lok Virsa – Birmingham Hippodrome 30^thMarch 2019

Spring was slow to appear in March this year but the sun burst through the clouds on Saturday the 30^thMarch just in time for Lok Virsa at the Hippodrome, in the centre of Birmingham.

I had heard wonderful tales from other colleagues about Lok Virsa, a one day arts festival or ‘mela’ of free arts activities and pop-up performances for all the family, but I was not prepared for the joyous carnival atmosphere that was to burst upon the streets of Birmingham and fill the beautifully decorated Hippodrome with the vibrant sights and sounds of the Indian Subcontinent.

The afternoon began with a lively procession through the bustling streets of Birmingham with passers by drawn in by the stunning costumes of the dancers and hypnotic rhythm of the drums.

The energy and exuberance of the procession was even enough to stop the traffic in its tracks:

Crowds gathered outside the Hippodrome as the musicians and dancers opened the afternoon festivities with a wonderful selection of dances and invited the public into the Hippodrome for an unforgettable day of music, dance and arts activities for all the family.

My role for the day was to greet visitors and let them know what was happening and what events were taking place. This was no easy task as over 5000 people came along to enjoy all that Lok Virsa had to offer. The time flew as I chatted to people who wanted to learn more about Sonia Sabri Company. We had lots of enquiries about the different dance and music classes that we offer inspired by the stunning performances on the day. I was also responsible for overseeing our great group of volunteers. These students willingly gave up their Saturday to help where needed, from decoration of the Hippodrome in the morning to supporting the artists throughout the day and ensuring that they had sufficient art supplies for the popular art activities. As I zoomed around the building, I also took the opportunity to snap pictures and videos of all the activities to share on social media. The dance and music workshops were full of enthusiastic participants and I loved seeing the concentration on everyone’s faces as they focused intently on learning new steps and rhythms. The joy on their faces when they were able to follow the steps was so wonderful to see.

The free art activities were popular with young and old. Visitors were able to try out calligraphy, rangoli and book binding as well as block printing and it was great that so many who took part were able to take home a memento of their day. The mhendi (henna tattoos) were also extremely popular and the designs were intricate and exquisite.

It was lovely to speak to families that had never visited the Hippodrome before or seen the style of music and dance and art activities that make Lok Virsa such a vibrant and exciting festival. It was also so special to see so many families having fun together, from grandparents to young children; everyone had a smile on their faces.

The atmosphere was carnival like and the magnificent spaces of the Hippodrome echoed with music and laughter. The beautiful film screening of “Dastaan with Sarvar Sabri” accompanied by live music and the eloquence of the poetry readings brought the day to a dignified and serene end.

I feel so lucky to have been a part of this colourful and fun filled day and I am looking forward to the next Lok Virsa – watch this space, as we may well be coming to a town near you very soon!

Photo credits: Anisa Fazal, Liv Buckland, and Lisa Godsal

Lisa Godsal

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Jun 6 2018, 04:06 PMFestival, Kathak, Performances, Sonia Sabri, Sonia Sabri Company, Ustad Sarvar Sabri

The Festival vibe!

There is nothing quite like the thrill of performing on a stage in front of an audience. Unless of course that stage is outdoors! It is so special to be able to perform at an outdoor venue or festival where often the audience are within touching distance of you performing and the atmosphere is upbeat and full of energy.

The ambiance of a music festival sparks a light inside anyone watching. The energy pulsating through the crowd is almost tangible and unites everyone there in perfect harmony. If you've ever been to a festival, you will know what we mean. A good festival experience will consist of meeting people you never normally would, listening to the sweet melodies of music you've never heard before and making wonderful memories you can keep with you for the rest of your life.

At Sonia Sabri Company we have been lucky enough to perform at a variety of festivals around the world and come rain or shine, alfresco events are unique and offer a fantastic experience both for the performers and the audience. All the hard work and hours of rehearsal are worth it when you catch a glimpse of members of the audience enthralled and captivated by your performance.

Our outdoor events often incorporate the basics of Kathak, which give audiences an insight into this joyous and rhythmic Indian dance. Footwork, spins, rhythmic choreographies and the art of storytelling through mime, gesture and facial expressions are often explored accompanied by live music on a variety of instruments! The beat of the drums is infectious and it is wonderful to see young and old clapping along or tapping their own toes in time to the music. The melodies seem to hang in the air and the special bells worn around the dancers feet add an ethereal note to the performance. It always feels so special to be able to introduce the energy of Kathak to a new audience.

At SSCo music and dancing go hand and hand. Without the music there would be no dancing. The infectious melodies of Kathak encourage audience members to feel and move to the music, it is very much a two-way relationship with the performer and audience feeding off each others’ energy.

Not all performances take place in glorious sunshine, however, and evening performances or performances at dusk can also add a haunting undertone or highlight the passion in an individual or group display. The atmosphere can be even more intense and uplifting as the sun slowly sets and the music echoes through the darkness.

The feeling of looking out from the stage and seeing a crowd of people all having a wonderful time is amazing and one of the best feelings in the world. We are looking forward to new and exciting performances this summer that will hopefully thrill and entertain no matter what the weather!

If you are interested in catching a live performance by Sonia Sabri Company or would like more information on booking SSCo please email
info@ssco.org.ukor call 01216223135.

Lisa Godsal

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'CRAFTS OF THE PUNJAB'

Oct 25 2017, 10:36 AMFestival, Sonia Sabri Company

'CRAFTS OF THE PUNJAB'

There was a real buzz on Saturday 21st October at the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum. We had been invited by the venue to help celebrate the 'Crafts of the Punjab' exhibition.

The day was so busy and full of joy and fun! We felt like we didn't stop! There was Punjabi dance and music performances, Rangoli art workshops, storytellers, and so much more!

And on top of that, the participants that took part in the activities were really engaged in what they were doing, and the audiences were totally mesmerised by the performances!

It was great to see so much enthusiasm! Thank you to the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum!

(Image by Mel Lewis)

Lisa Godsal

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LOK VIRSA: BEYOND BORDERS, IS BACK!

Oct 24 2017, 10:51 AMFestival, Lok Virsa, Sonia Sabri Company

LOK VIRSA: BEYOND BORDERS, IS BACK!

I remember the first time I ever saw ‘Lok Virsa’ and became involved in some way with the project was in April 2012 as part of the Alchemy Festival, Southbank Centre.

‘Lok Virsa’ means the ‘heritage of the people.’ It is this wonderful simplicity that Sonia Sabri Company celebrates by focussing on the beautiful arts and crafts of the Indian subcontinent.

(Image by Sonia Sabri Company)

India and Pakistan share a rich heritage in their customs and traditions, which unites the people of these places, despite political differences. It is this heritage that has transmitted itself to different parts of the world and is now being shared right here in the UK.

The main things that I recollect from the ‘Lok Virsa’ day in 2012 were the vibrant colours of the costumes, the beautiful sounds of the folk songs, the simplicity of the folk dances, the buzz of the audiences, the chitter chatter of workshop participants and the interaction of spectators as they watched the performances. It was a truly amazing and joyful day!

(Image by Pulkit Sharma)

Five years on and ‘Lok Virsa’ still remains to intrigue audiences all over the UK and you’ll be pleased to know that the festival will next be seen at Swindon Dance, 5^th Nov, 12pm-5pm.

https://www.swindondance.org.uk/event/lok-virsa-beyond-borders/

Lisa Godsal

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Night of Festivals South Asia 2017

Aug 9 2017, 11:36 AMFestival, Sonia Sabri Company

SONIA SABRI COMPANY SET TO ASTONISH AND AMAZE AUDIENCES

AT NIGHT OF FESTIVALS SOUTH ASIA

Saturday 19th August

1.15 - 2pm

As part of Leicester's festivities marking the 70th Anniversary of India and Pakistan's Independence, Sonia Sabri Company have been invited to perform at Night of Festivals South Asia 14-19th August.

This is part of a six day festival that celebrates the spirit of South Asia, exploring Indian and Pakistani heritage; past, present and future.

This spectacular event sees Sonia Sabri Company perform an energetic and vibrant array of folk, classical and funky dance styles.

Join us and other artists on an exciting journey in which the rich and diverse flavours of South Asia will be revealed through not only dance but also through music, visual arts, exhibitions, crafts, food, conversations and much, much more...

This is a FREE event, so don't miss your chance to watch us in action and experience the joys of dance.

Image by Livvy Buckland

Lisa Godsal

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Jul 27 2017, 05:31 PMFestival, London, Sonia Sabri, Sonia Sabri Company

Greenbelt Festival 2017

We are extremely excited that an exert of 'Salaam' will be included in the line up of Greenbelt Festival at Boughton House, Kettering, on the 27th August, 7:00pm!

Since 1974, Greenbelt have had a mission to create spaces, where art, faith and justice collide, hosting a multi-arts festival programme of music, visual and performing arts, spirituality, comedy, talks and discussion. Their commitment to the arts, has made them a great platform for us to showcase 'Salaam.'

Prior to the performance, come along and discover the basics of Kathak, with an exclusive dance workshop, at 12:30pm, which will you give an insight into the joyous and rhythmic indian dance. Footwork, spins,rhytmic choreographies and the art of storytelling through mime, gesture and facial expressions will all be explored!

This will be followed by the highly anticipated presentation of Salaam in the evening! The piece is set to be stunning, cleverly weaving dialogue between exhilarating live music and meaningful storytelling, through Kathak. Acclaimed, Sonia Sabri will command the stage, with her precise, graceful technique and command of rhythm and repertoire, whilst Sarvar Sabri as a gifted tabla player, will provide a deep and unique insight into Indian classical music.

To find out more-

http://www.greenbelt.org.uk/artists/salaam-presented-by-sonia-sabri-company/

Lisa Godsal

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Jul 27 2017, 05:31 PMFestival, Lok Virsa, Sonia Sabri Company

LOK VIRSA: Beyond Borders
Saturday 26th August

As a company that celebrates music, poetry, crafts and dance, we are delighted to announce that our one day mela event, LOK VIRSA: Beyond Borders, will be returning to Birmingham at the Library of Birmingham this summer!

On Saturday the 26th of August, from 11-4:30pm, we will be celebrating South Asian arts and culture, going 'beyond borders' and reminding audiences of unity despite modern borders and political differences.

This event is very close to our hearts, as inspirational artists from the Indian sub-continent ,will be sharing their love and passion for art forms such as Dance, Arabic Calligraphy, Mehndi, Rangoli and Block Printing! Its set to be an engaging,inclusive day for all of the family, with a variety of engaging workshops, and exciting Indian traditions activities.

You could find yourself unleashing your artistic and creative side, with a Ajrakh inspired block printing activity, that will not only excite but educate you in the fascinating history and culture of South Asia.

Or simply being memorized by watching the fast paced and energetic traditional folk dances from the subcontinent!

With not long to go, we encourage you to come and re-discover the roots and ideas behind South Asian music, dance and visual arts, at LOK ViRSA!

Lisa Godsal

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Jul 5 2017, 01:41 PMAkaar, Festival, Sonia Sabri Company, Young People

Akaar 2017

Akaar 2017 was a success, showcasing the local talent of the Midlands at the Old Rep Theatre on Saturday 1st July.

The journey began with an open invitation to Midlands based dance and music groups, of all backgrounds. The responses received was overwhelming, with a variety of emerging talents showing interest.

As the performance day arrived, adrenaline filled the backstage dressing rooms, as the final preparations of the showcase took place. The weeks of intense rehearsals leading up to the performance had finally come to a close, as the dancers and musicians waited for their call backstage. All of the performers shared a passion for classical, folk, Bharathanatyam, Bollywood and Kathak, and were finally ready to perform on the Old Rep Theatre stage, to an excited audience.

The public were thrilled with the standard of the show, eager to come back and see similar performances! Akaar 2017 wouldn't have been a success, without all of the hard working performers and supportive audience members!

We hope to see you for another successful Akaar in 2018!

Lisa Godsal

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Akaar 2017

Jun 14 2017, 12:23 PMAkaar, Festival, Sonia Sabri Company

Akaar 2017!

Join us to celebrate the emerging talent of the midlands on the 1^st July 2017, with Akaar 2017, where artists, including students from local groups and communities will unite to perform music and dance on the main stage at the old rep theatre. The performances have been supported by the teaching and guidance of artistic and musical directors Sonia Sabri and Sarvar Sabri, with a strive to create performances that are relevant to modern audiences, with inspirations being drawn from eastern and western cultures.

The dancers and musicians due to perform at the event, will be from aged 11 years plus with various backgrounds,however they will all ultimately share a passion for dance and music being within Classical,Folk,Bharathanatyam, Bollywood, Kathak, as well as new fusion and experimental south asian arts.

One of the dancers set to perform for the event, will be Shreya Suresh, who’s dance piece is titled 'Taandavam', which can be defined as a divine dance of creation and destruction, following the Bharatanatyam dance style. With the choreography devised by Divya Kasturi , the piece can be described as energetic, supported with the evergreen popular verse of Sri Dayananda Saraswathi -‘Bho Shambo’. She has been involved in a variety of solo performances, with her most recent being the first round of the BBC young dancers' event in 2016. As a performer that has grown to love art, her attendance at Akaar is something she is excited about, alongside the other artists that are set to perform their own work.

The event is set be mesmerising as dancers and musicians across the midlands come together to share their passion and love for a variety of music and dance styles. In order to secure your seat for the event, follow the link to book. It will most definetly be a event to not me missed!

http://www.oldreptheatre.co.uk/akaar.html