Jungle Book in ballet & dance fusion

webNEW BRUNSWICK, NJ: Lustig Dance Theatre premiered Graham Lustig’s, Jangala, on March 2 at Middlesex County College. Inspired by tales from Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book”, Lustig pays homage to his long held respect and love for the arts of India, not least its tradition of classical dance, in this new production.

Known for his engaging, theatrical interpretations of popular stories, Lustig’s newest endeavor, Jangala, features LDT professional dancers who showcase a fusion of Contemporary ballet and Bharatanatyam. Tying the dances together are many colorful costumes, extravagant sets, props and new-era music that will give the familiar Jungle Book story, a brand new flare.

Master teacher and dancer Renuka Srinivasan, Artistic Director of the TalaShruti Dance Studio in Fords, NJ, is an accomplished Bharatanatyam expert who assisted Lustig with the creation of Jangala. The LDT Company is joined by Dr. Shobana Natarajan, one of Ms. Srinivasan’s students, LDT Ensemble students, as well as Alicia Pagan, a recent graduate of Middlesex County College.

The magical evening begins with an interactive presentation of Bharatanatyam, followed by the feature presentation of, Jangala.

Jangala is funded in part by Middlesex County Cultural & Heritage Commission with assistance through a grant provided by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Dept of State.

India Post News Service