A celebration of colour, culture and boundless creativity, A Magical Journey with Krishna was performed to a packed audience at Sydney’s Riverside Theatre in August. More than 100 dancers and actors – all dressed up in dazzling costumes and jewellery – took to the stage.
Produced by Harris Park-based Swastik Institute of Dance, the play brought to life two very different stories – one set in contemporary Sydney and the other in the mythological world of Hindu god, Krishna. With 10 sweeping dance performances, impeccable stage lighting, spot-on music and glorious projections, there were seamless transitions between the modern and mythological eras, leaving the audience thoroughly captivated and spellbound.
Applause poured in from all quarters on Swastik Institute of Dance’s Facebook page as soon as the play was over. “I have seen many programs in Sydney but [A Magical Journey with] Krishna was unique in all aspects,” wrote well-known singer and radio jockey Rajesh Batra.
“Absolutely breathtaking performance and show,” added Yelda Chembirika, mortgage consultant at Mortgagebiz Finance Centre.
“Spectacular musical production….privileged to witness it – amazing costumes, music, sound, lights, participants and the end speech was the best,” chimed in Reena Koak, organiser of Miss India Australia contest.
In her brief address to the spectators at the end of the show, Sumati Lekhi – the play’s artistic director as well as the force behind Swastik Institute of Dance – thanked the audience, and the entire cast and crew.
“This play would have not been possible without the contribution of the dancers of Swastik and their families. We have been rehearsing for months, with our rigorous rehearsals often starting at 7.30 in the morning. And we have kids as young as five years old in this production, so it’s a lot of hard work and commitment that has gone into this play,” said Sumati.
If you missed the play, don’t fret, for Swastik Institute of Dance will be back with another stage production next year. And once again, unlike anything Sydney has ever seen before.
For enquiries, contact Sumati Lekhi: sumati@swastikdance.com.au