Two worlds simultaneously bleed one where gendered violence is endemic and another where Goddesses destroy demons.
MELBOURNE, 23 August 2022: Durga is the Goddess of protection, motherhood, and war. Also known as Mariamman and Korravai, Durga is a primordial being of complex multiplicities, recognized as the carrier of feminine strength.
The Durga Chronicles evokes a metaverse in which the Goddess is ruler and destroyer of demons in one world, whilst in another, her kin is assaulted and murdered.
At once a rite of collective mourning and a call to action, The Durga Chronicles remembers the stories of women who have been harmed and harnesses the force of Durga to provoke empowered resistance against gendered violence.
Drawing on contemporary, classical Indian postmodern aesthetics, this rich work uses music, dance, and stunning visuals – along with a world first; an exquisite, moving Carnatic choir of 12 women – to create a storytelling experience that operates on a visceral level.
Internationally renowned dancer/choreographer/writer Priya Srinivasan’s works explore issues of social justice. Rooted in South Asian dance practice, her performances make women’s histories visible and have been presented in major festivals across the globe.
Here she is joined by long-time collaborator Philipa Rothfield along with Uthra Vijay, an intergenerational Keerthana Women’s Choir, Hari Sivanesan, Govin Ruben, and Marcus Salvagno to explore the ritual power of movement, song, and storytelling as a means to incite change.
Post Show Conversations
Intimate Roundtable Discussions
Saturday 3 September, post-show 2.15pm
Duration 1 hour, Free for all ticket holders
Join community leaders in a series of intimate, round table discussions as they explore topics drawn from themes raised in The Durga Chronicles – including women and financial abuse, shame, and allyship. Each round table will focus on its own topic and will be facilitated by an expert in that area. Choose to stay with one conversation for the entire hour or move between conversations as you feel. A qualified clinical psychologist will be in attendance for personal support. Complimentary chai and samosas will be provided.
Table hosts:
Anita Barar – SBS Hindi
Dr Nilmini Fernando – WIRE, Griffith University Social and Cultural Research Centre
Apsara Sabaratnam – Monash University
Tasneem Chopra
Molina Asthana – joined at the table by The Durga Chronicles Artistic Director Priya Srinivasan
Maria Dimopoulos AM – Safe and Equal
Joined by Dr Amita Sarkar – B.A., M.A., M.PHIL (CLIN. PSY), D CLIN PSYCH, SARKAR Mental Health Experts
Source – www.artshouse.com.au
