Sacred Earth Stories 2021 (virtual in Dallas, TX)

Sacred Earth Stories (SES) is a multidisciplinary performance installation on intersectional environmentalism that connects ancient earth mythologies to current global and social justice issues, including oppression, sustainability, and climate change. Intersectional Environmentalist founder Leah Thomas defines the movement as an "inclusive version of environmentalism that advocates for the protection of both people and the planet. It identifies the ways in which injustices
happening to marginalized communities and the earth are interconnected."
In many ancient cultures and their mythologies, the earth is personified as a life-giving goddess. SES tells these tales through current issues of deforestation, industrialization, pollution, and oppression of people. Further, SES urges that a respectful alliance with people is necessary to protect Mother Earth and her resources. Traditional Bharata Natyam dance of India, interpretations of traditional Afro-Caribbean dance and South American Andean ceremonial movement, spoken word
commentary, rhythm, and commissioned world music merge to create a stunning dance- and soundscape linking the past and present. SES premiered in Austin, TX in June 2019 to a twice soldout audience. In addition, in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated that the production be adapted as a virtual, scaled-down version that can be viewed on TH-cam.
Featuring Austin Dance India, Sangeet Millennium Ensemble, Hathor's Yemoya Experience, and Jacco Velarde. Supported in part by the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs. Special thanks to sponsors Vineeta Salvi (Pratham USA) and Rekha & Prakash Rao.
Conceptualization, Development and Artistic Direction by Anuradha Naimpally (Austin Dance India)
Produced by Sangeet Millennium and Chasquis
Choreography in collaboration with dancers and music developed by musicians
Bhoomanjali original music composition by Guru Shri VP Dhanajayan
Gaia and Pachamama spoken word written by Anuradha Naimpally
Bhoomi lyrics from Jayadeva’s Dashavatar poem and music by Janardhan Tanjorekar
Wayward Child poem written by Swadesh Mahajan
Tarana music composed by Ashwini Gore-Deshpande
Dancers: Soumya Ashok, Purna Bajekal, Rachel Calderon, Hathor Hendrix, Anuradha Naimpally
Musicians: Ashwini Gore-Deshpande, William Thomas Jones, Amie Maciszewski, The Poetry Teacher, Jacco Velarde, Vivek Virani
pc Kris Hundt