Come next Saturday, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s (GHDS) annual show takes to the stage at the National Cultural Centre in ‘A Royal Twist’.
According to a press release from the GHDS, the dance production will be presented in story form and it “follows renowned actress Riya Patel’s (played by Dr Indhira Harry) journey from stage to direction.”
Directed and choreographed by Dr Vindhya Persaud, who also wrote the storyline, ‘A Royal Twist’ covers Riya’s dream to present the epic love story of Saleem and Anarkali of the Mughal era and is intertwined with her own personal experiences including a surprise visit from the past.
The show promises to be a truly spectacular extravaganza with superb dance, music and drama, breathtaking and elaborate sets, special lighting effects and glamorous and dazzling costumes, the release said. Meticulous attention has been paid to every detail, it added.
The show offers also numerous dance styles and a fabulous soundtrack. Costumes and sets are designed by Trishala Persaud, while Cloud Nine Inc has been roped in to add spectacular lighting for the production, the release said. Other cast members include US-based choreographer and dancer Noman Ahmad as the debonair Sid Sharma, Zahrah Alli as the famous Mughal dancer Anarkali, Arun Subramaniam as Prince Saleem and Nazim Hussain as Emperor Akbar, along with some 55 other dancers. Winner of the E-Networks Emerging Voices Competition, Vishale Sukram will also be part of the production, the release said.
According to the director, this year’s production has allowed her to let her imagination run riot in crafting a script which conjures up the splendour and romance of a bygone era as well as the drama of present day.
The producers are particularly inviting those who have never been to any Naya Zamana to see this year’s show as the production celebrates its 20th anniversary.
Tickets for the show cost $3,500, $3,000 and $2,000 and are on sale at the Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud Dharmic Kendra in Prashad Nagar, Red Mango in Robb Street, E-Networks (Camp Street and Port Mourant, Berbice), Bhagwans in Water Street, Payless Variety Store at Vreed-en-Hoop and the National Cultural Centre or patrons can call 227-6181 or 219-1900.
