MISSION

Kalamandir Dance Company (501c3) is a contemporary dance ensemble that uses the vocabulary of classical Indian dance to explore new spaces of artistic expression. Instead of diminishing the foundation of our classical styles, we look to investigate their communicative potential when merged with Western dance traditions. Using Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Manipuri, Odissi, Flamenco, Contemporary, Jazz, African and Ballet training, our dancers collaboratively converse with movement and create dialogue with expression. We are driven by creativity, human emotions, and a desire to be released from the four walls of our daily existence. Our movement vocabulary is a collective effort that aims to create a reachable area for all people to participate and communicate.

HISTORY

Founded in 2009, Kalamandir Dance Company is the creative vision of Malabika Guha, director and teacher of the 25 years-running Kalamandir Kathak and Creative Dance school of NJ. Malabika wanted to bring together advanced dancers with a foundation in Indian Classical dance and use their experience with Western dance training and movement theory to expand on original storylines and ideas. Her hope was that a dance company with a rich repertoire of movement and expression would be able to demonstrate the true universality of human emotions and experiences. The result was a collaborative company of dancers with training in kathak, ballet, odissi, modern, bharatanatyam, flamenco and capoeira who started meeting weekly to explore all the exciting possibilities that their diverse abilities, ideologies, and experiences had to offer.

What are we looking for?

Skilled dancers who are interested and capable of executing Brinda Guha's signature #ContemporaryIndian movement, have their own unique voice culminating of quality of movement, internal groove, and attention to detail; and looking to be part of a creative collective for the spring/summer 2019 dance season. 

Some opportunities provide small artist stipends. All projects are scheduled and handled with efficiency. What does that mean for the prospective dancer? It means that the choreographer will always try to accommodate all needs of the dancers and keep the rehearsal times efficient in return for discpline and excellency in the material they are given. Professionalism is key. Kindness is appreciated. Community is celebrated. And a respect towards the sanctity of world movement is mandatory. 

Rehearsals will be on Tuesday evenings starting Feb 19th, 2019. Location TBD. 

Contemporary Indian dance class to attend (donation-based space) is every week on Thursdays at Liberated Movement (380 Broadway, below Canal Street) from 7-8pm. 

Important dates for now: Must be available to perform on April 5 & 6, 2019.

So far, KDC has scheduled 4 shows in the season, and 3 digital media projects. 

AUDITION INFO

Tuesday, February 5th, 2019

7-9pm

Location: TBD (Please "follow" @kalamandirdance on Instagram for updates)

RSVP at brinda.guha@gmail.com with your headshot and resume.

Please wear comfortable clothes, and look audition ready! A little accessory or two never hurt anyone!

See you on Feb 5th!