Artistic productions of
Shivangini Academy
“For the many non-Hindi speaking audience members, the barrier of language was artistically handled by presentations made by English speakers who theatrically engaged the audience throughout the production. To say the least, this production was by far one of its kind in terms of catering to all age groups and ethnicities.”
~ India Herald, Charulata 2017.
In 2017, Shiva Mathur was awarded the Outstanding Achievements Award for Cultural Activities in Greater Houston by the India Culture Center. Shivangini Academy is proud to have curated and produced original artistic productions focused on traditional Kathak storytelling.
PARAMPARA (2019)
Parampara, the Sanskrit word translates to “Tradition.”
Classical art forms teach us core values that enrich the soul: humility, dedication, and persistence. Through the art of mentorship, we pass down our knowledge to the next generation, each student lovingly contributing to the artistic vision. Celebrating the legacy of the Gurus before them, the students of Shivangini Academy demonstrate what Parampara means to them in a modern-day environment.
CHARULATA (2017)
The first-ever Kathak-based adaptation of Cinderella,
the timeless fairytale loved by so many.
A sold-out phenomenon, the dance drama follows Charulata as she navigates her cruel upbringing and journeys to royalty - using her pure heart, ambition, and talent to entrance the kingdom. The dancers perform abhinaya, or traditional storytelling, on Hindi dialogues spoken in the kavit style of poetry composed by Smt. Shanti Sahai “Nalini’ (Shiva Mathur’s grandmother). The costumes, music, and choreography were curated by Shiva Mathur to convey the cultural environment of India bridged with a western-based theme.
KHIDKI (2014)
Khidki - the window - the symbolic element of opportunity
for two sisters who yearn for knowledge.
Kamli & Sattu dream of escaping the world of poverty, made more difficult with structural barriers in India. Upon stumbling across a prestigious dance institute near their village, they secretly learn by watching the other dancers, knowing they could not afford the tuition. Once they are caught, they are met with scorn and disdain by upper-class students. However, when the teacher realizes their reception and talent, they are finally accepted into the academy and begin their journey of Taalim. This is another original choreography by Shiva Mathur, captivating hearts with an important message: art should be given to all.
RITUCHAAR (2012)
An ode to the four seasons, celebrated through small, individual kathas.
Dancers of Shivangini Academy perform on original music compositions detailing the beauty of Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring. A simple gesture of basking in the warm July sun, or comforting a friend in the cold highlights the subtle realness of Kathak abhinaya. Shiva Mathur also emphasizes presentation and speaking skills on stage. During Rituchaar, students were encouraged to recite poetry to introduce each season.
SHAKUNTALA (2005)
Shivangini Academy’s first stage production in Houston: The famous story of Shakuntala told in the ancient Indian epic, Mahabarata.
The 2005 performance marked one of the first times Kathak-based storytelling is shown in Houston in the form of a dance drama. King Dushyant weds Shakuntala, but upon a curse bestowed by rishi Durvasa, he loses memory of his beloved until he is presented with the ring he gave her. Shivangini Academy’s own Tabla and Dholak students perform with Live Vocalists, showcasing the dialogue of Shakuntala handwritten by Shiva Mathur and her Gurus. Every aspect of set design, costume, and choreography builds a foundation for Shiva Mathur to compose several new artistic productions in later years!
