Don Quixote meets Bollywood at the National Hispanic Cultural Center on Thursday.
The Indian classical dance troupe Sahrdaya Foundation has adapted Miguel Cervantes’ 17th-century classic with ankle bells, silks and music.
This version of the man of La Mancha incorporates poetry, music, dance and theater into the Bharatanatyam dance form based in India’s southernmost tip.
Bharatanatyam is known for its grace, purity, tenderness, expression and sculpturesque poses. One of the most popular and widely performed dance styles, its god is Lord Shiva. Many of the ancient sculptures in Hindu temples are based on these dance postures.
“Don Quixote” will be told through the moves of 15 costumed dancers accompanied by original recorded music. The event also celebrates the 400th anniversary of one of the most influential books in the Spanish literary canon. Expect a horse, a donkey and at least one windmill.
“I think the book in general has universal elements,” said Trupthi Panickor, president of the University of New Mexico Indian Student Association, “especially the chivalry. It’s relevant to everything in everyday life.”
Don Quixote is an idealistic dreamer who sets out to revive that lost tradition. Accompanied by his befuddled friend Sancho Panza, he has a series of fantastic adventures in his quest to save the world.
Indian dance is based in storytelling grounded in three aspects, Panickor said. The fancy footwork can rival that of flamenco, its intricacy based on mathematical calculations. Hand gestures reflect the stories being told by the musicians.
“The dancers don’t talk,” Panickor explained. “They don’t sing, either; the musicians do it.”
Facial expressions mirror the emotions of each scene in this highly theatrical art form.
Costumes may be as elaborate and bright as saris. The clothing for “Don Quixote” has been adapted for a Spanish feel.
“It’s kind of a bridge between both” cultures, Panickor said.
The story of “Don Quixote” is the story of us all, director/choreographer Sheejith Krishna wrote in the production notes.
“What is right? What is madness?” he asked. “‘Don Quixote’ is the story of a man who is very human. He has his flaws. In that, he is no different from any of us.”
Currently on a U.S. tour, the production opens next at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
