Assortment dancer- Isabelle Anna performs Kathak at port city

Accomplished French dancer Isabelle Anna captivated the port city audience at a Kathak dance recital that was held at the auditorium of Alliance Française de Chittagong on May 9.

Alliance Française de Chittagong arranged the programme. Dr Samuel Berthet, Director of Alliance Française de Chittagong, inaugurated the programme.

Isabelle Anna started off her performance with a “Shahi Mehfil” choreography by Pt Jaikishan Maharaj. The performance was set on teen tal. A performance, to a thumri, composed by Bindadin Maharaj was next. Anna beautifully enacted a young maiden being teased by Krishna, who keeps tugging at her sari, pursuing her, and stealing her pitcher.

Anna danced to a ghazal, titled “Bade Nada” that was composed by Pt. Arjun Mishra.

The artiste presented a vibrant piece of dance with a “Sargam”. Choreographed by Pt. Arjun Mishra, the piece was set on an 11-beat tal called “Ashtamangal”.

In the second session Anna presented her experimental works based on Kathak blended with western music. With the tune of “My Bolero”, a version for 2 pianos by Labeque sisters, Isabelle presented an outstanding performance. The artiste wrapped up her performance with “Habanera”, a composition from the “Carmen Opera”, and music by George Bizet.

Born in a rich cultural environment, Isabelle Anna commenced her training in Bharatanatyam at the age of five. Subsequently, in 1998, she was initiated to kathak dance by Sharmila Sharma, disciple of the legendary Indian kathak dance exponent, Pandit Birju Maharaj, at centre 'Mandapa' in Paris.