Due to unexpected logistical issues, Dance Victoria’s scheduled program of Āhuti, featuring Nrityagram Dance Ensemble (India) and Chitrasena Dance Company (Sri Lanka), has been replaced by an exclusive North American premiere of Nrityagram Dance Ensemble’s new Odissi work KHANKANĀ: the sound of dancing feet (2025). KHANKANĀ offers Dance Victoria audiences a first look at the world-renowned company’s newest work, not seen outside of India.
Nrityagram Dance Ensemble is India’s foremost Odissi dance company, with the unprecedented distinction of making The New York Times “Best Dance of the Year” list two years in a row. The company takes audiences on a journey across time to witness KHANKANĀ: the sound of dancing feet. Featuring highly acclaimed pieces created over the last three decades by choreographer and internationally renowned Odissi artist Surupa Sen, KHANKANĀ showcases Sen’s unique sensibility of thought and movement. The program will also include a specially remounted solo performance by Sen, who is highly revered as one of the world’s best Odissi dancers.
Immediately following the performance, audiences are invited to stay for a post-show chat with Artistic Director and Choreographer Surupa Sen, facilitated by Dance Victoria Executive Director Gillian Jones. During Nrityagram Dance Ensemble’s visit to Victoria, the artists will also give a live, educational performance at Tillicum Elementary School as part of Dance Victoria’s Community Engagement programs.
This presentation is made possible with generous support from Season Sponsor Derma Spa, Lead Presentation Sponsor Departures Travel, TD Bank Group through the TD Ready Commitment, and public support from the Government of Canada, Canada Council for the Arts, Government of BC, BC Arts Council, and the CRD Arts Development office.
About Nrityagram Dance Ensemble
More than a dance company, Nrityagram was founded as a Gurukula (school) devoted to Indian dance. The all-female ensemble’s daily life of intensive training and meditation brings to the stage compelling, captivating performances that are at once sensual and lyrical.
Literally translating as ‘Dance Village,’ Nrityagram is located on 10 acres of farmland outside of Bangalore, India. The community identifies itself as India’s first modern Gurukula, an ancient education system where shishya (students) live closely and study under a guru or gurus.
Conceived this way for almost 30 years, Nrityagram imparts not only technique in dance but nurtures a philosophy of being that embraces holistic practices, mindful living, and the pursuit of excellence. All members of Nrityagram Dance Ensemble, along with a community of more than 100 students, live, work, study, and play on the grounds of this dance village.
The result of this dedication is a company whose dancers do not simply practice their art – but live it. It is a distinction that can be readily felt by any audience who is so fortunate to be present for this embodied, vibrant ensemble.
Nrityagram Dance Ensemble
Royal Theatre
Friday, March 8, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 9, 7:30 p.m.
How to Buy Tickets
Phone: The Royal or McPherson Box Offices at 250-386-6121 or toll free at 1-888-717-6121 Monday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Royal Theatre is closed 1:00 to 1:30 pm)
Online: DanceVictoria.com
Visit the Royal and McPherson Theatres website for current Box Office details.
SINGLE TICKET PRICES (NON-SUBSCRIBER PRICING)
| Loge | $130.25 |
| Premium | $120.25 |
| A | $99.50 |
| B | $80.75 |
| C+ | $40.25 |
| C | $31 |
Pay Your Age (ages 12 to 29) and Night Moves (ages 30 to 45) tickets are also available.
About Dance Victoria
Dance Victoria brings the World’s Best Dance to the Royal Theatre and supports the development of new dance for the international stage from its studios in Quadra Village. Dance Victoria is a non-profit charitable society. DanceVictoria.com
Media Materials
Email a[email protected] to request high-resolution images and other media materials.
Media Contact
Anne-Sophie Cournoyer
Marketing Manager, Dance Victoria
anne-sophie@dancevictoria.com
250-595-1829