Performances & Events

Sackler Museum
Harvard University, 2006



A Kathak Story
March 2007



Visiting dancer Anjali Nath
Sackler Museum 2006

Events in italics are open to the public

Chhandika Presents its Sixth Annual Student Show

Sunday, June 1st, 2008 at 4:30 pm
Peabody School Auditorium
70 Rindge Ave, Cambridge, MA
Followed by a reception

Gretchen Hayden’s students of all ages will lead you on a colorful voyage through the phases of a classical kathak solo concert. From the subtlety of meditative movement to the evocative expression of storytelling to the dynamic rhythm of footwork, experience the vast scope of the kathak tradition and repertoire, past and present.

Come join us for this annual community event celebrating kathak dance, and stay to enjoy some Indian treats at the reception.

Admission:
General: $15
Children 12 and under: $5
Tickets available at the door.

Recent Events

Kathak collaboration with Natraj

World-jazz group Natraj in collaboration with guest artist, kathak dancer Gretchen Hayden. Natraj featured the raga-influenced soprano saxophone of Phil Scarff; the guest violin virtuoso Rohan Gregory; the warm, nimble solidity of bassist Michael Rivard; the tabla and multipercussion mastery of Jerry Leake; and high-energy groove of drummer Bertram Lehmann.

How do elements of classical Indian raga, tala, and kathak dance react when coming into contact with jazz and world music? Ranging from the elegant and disciplined to the explosive and spontaneous, the performers presented the audience with breathtaking melodies, dynamic rhythms, scintillating footwork, and swirling grace.

Sangeet—Music/Dance/Rhythm/Drama

A two-part concert

GEORGE RUCKERT, sarod
GRETCHEN HAYDEN, kathak dance

Accompanied by exceptional guest artist
Nitin Mitta, tabla

Sarod Solo with Tabla Accompaniment
Known for his sparkling, melodic, soulful and rhythmically innovative music, George Ruckert masterfully renders ragas in the style of his guru, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan.

Kathak Dance with Musical Accompaniment
From the classical stories and gestures of Indian tradition to the exciting rhythms and movements of modern kathak, Gretchen Hayden breathes new life into this ancient art form. Following the footsteps of her guru, Pandit Chitresh Das, her kathak performances combine the depth of classical tradition with sparks of improvisation and elements of surprise.

Cambridge River Festival

Revolving along a one-mile stretch on the banks of the Charles River, the 28th annual Cambridge River Festival celebrated the city’s cultural diversity through music, dance and the arts. Captivating people of all ages and backgrounds, nationally recognized artists entertained at this lively outdoor celebration. Produced by the Cambridge Arts Council.

Children’s Dance Festival

Young members of Chhandika performed as part of this annual festival. Gretchen Hayden also led a workshop for young dancers.