We sat down with Anne Tiburtius to learn more about her style of South Indian dance, which tells stories through movement, and the cultural celebration workshops starting in September.
Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a Bharatanatyam dancer and teacher.
Bharatanatyam is a 3,000-year-old dance form that originated in the courts and temples of South India. It is athletic, expressive, and vibrant, and it depicts stories mostly based on Indian mythology.
What inspires your creative work?
I am inspired by good music, by the students I teach, and by my teachers, but mostly, I am inspired when there is a good story to tell. People and their stories really move me to explore new ways to express the same.
What is the importance of dance as an art form?
Where words are inadequate to express what one wants, movement is a very powerful and precise way of communicating the same. Sometimes, words cannot articulate a mood like movement can, nor can they depict the nuances and layers of emotion.
Dance and movement are instinctive, and I would say at a primal level, the need to move is in each of us, from the vibrations of the atoms that make us to the gross motor movements that feature in daily life.
Can you tell us a bit about the Cultural Celebration workshops?
The sessions will be an exciting and rare opportunity to dip your toes into the beautiful art form of Bharatanatyam, find new ways of expressing yourself, and acquire an appreciation and authentic knowledge of Indian culture.
How weave stories into your dance?
Bharatanatyam is predominantly a storytelling art form. We use a specialised set of hand gestures known as mudras and hastas to depict various words, moods, events, etc., much like any other sign language. Those participating in the course will also learn the basics of this nonverbal language.
Who can take part in the Cultural Celebration sessions?
Cultural Celebration is open to anyone interested in coming along. All are welcome.
I aim to be inclusive of all abilities and create a safe and enjoyable space for learning.
What will we get from taking part?
You will get a good understanding and grounding in the Bharatanatyam technique whilst learning a beautiful piece of repertoire.
All materials, including the music, will be provided to take away for personal use and practice.
Do I need to have dancing experience to take part?
An interest in exploring something new and enjoying a challenge is far more important than previous experience. Beginners are most welcome.
We’re currently exploring Kindness this season. How do you integrate kindness into your creative practice?
Kindness should form the backbone of any artistic practice. Kindness to self by respecting our body and mind, kindness to others by valuing and appreciating their contributions in an authentic way, and kindness to our environment by making sure that our practice and performances are not damaging to our earth or other creatures.
Cultural Celebration starts on 20 Sep for eight weeks for more information or to book, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000.
