Crank Tap, Indian-Style

Dance is something that crosses all cultural boundaries. Sure, there are differences in style -- the movements often vary greatly, the music can range from driving rhythms to soft melodies, and the costumes might be minimal or elaborate -- yet some form of dance makes its way into most, if not all, societies. Soorya Performing Arts, a local company that specializes in the dances of India, wants to highlight two dance styles with very different roots during the performance Milan: A Meeting Point of Kathak and Tap Dancing, which happens at 7:30 p.m. at Clayton High School (1 Mark Twain Circle, Clayton). During this diverse, rhythmic show, Guru Prasanna Kasthuri demonstrates kathak, an ancient northern Indian dance form distinctive for its spontaneity, and Robert Reed answers back with a good ol’ American tap; the performers are accompanied by live music courtesy of drummer Naren Budhakar, vocalist Seema Kasthuri, Imratgitar-player Todd Mosby and others. To witness this multicultural extravaganza, purchase your tickets ($10 to $25) at www.sooryadance.com, and for more information call Soorya at 314-397-5278.
Sat., Nov. 3, 2007