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Esplanade Presents
Indian Performing Arts Convention 2025
In Collaboration with Apsaras Dance Company
19 Sep 2025, Fri, 8pm
(Intermission: None)
Esplanade Theatre Studio
This event is over.
“Dancer Parvathy as Āranyani — the ethereal goddess of the forest — beckons the protagonist (portrayed by Shijith) into a transformative exploration of self-discovery through man-beast conflicts and the greed for power. Malayalam poetry, Kabir’s couplets, Carnatic music and Rabindra sangeet along with sophisticated lighting design were used to embellish the theme.” – The Hindu, 1 Sep 2023
Āranyani, the ethereal goddess of the forest, sets the stage for a mesmerising bharatanatyam dance production centered on the profound theme of soul-searching. With her mystical aura and enchanting presence, she beckons the protagonist into a transformative exploration of self-discovery.
The plot unfolds as the seeker ventures into the depths of the forest, enchanted by the mystical hymn Hamsa soham ekam that echoes through the forest. In all her ineffable splendour, Āranyani becomes both guide and his muse. Her influence is omnipresent—she is the divine sculptor shaping his destiny, teaching him valuable lessons as he evolves.
ĀRANYANI is an emotional and intense dance-theatre presentation by Shijith Nambiar and Parvathy, wherein the innocent soul, in its quest for liberation, gets clouded by the lure of power. Through powerful imagery, it transforms—from the fluttering butterfly to the majestic elephant, from the powerful lion to the relentless woodpecker and finally, the swan to attain moksha Hamsa soham ekam.
There will be a post-show dialogue by Shijith Nambiar and Parvathy Menon.
Arrive early for a pre-show VR showcase featuring two Apsaras Dance Company films in stereoscopic 180°. The experience will be available from 7pm in the Theatre Studio foyer on a first-come, first-served basis, and is only accessible before the show.
Shijith Nambiar and Parvathy Menon
Shijith Nambiar and Parvathy Menon are internationally renowned bharatanatyam artists and partners, both on and off stage. With over two decades of shared artistic journey, they have captivated audiences worldwide through their deeply spiritual, refined, and synchronised performances.
Shijith, known for his rhythmic brilliance and choreographic innovation, and Parvathy, celebrated for her aesthetic purity and evocative abhinaya in the Kalakshetra tradition, together embody the essence of bharatanatyam.
Recipients of multiple accolades including the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar and recognition from The Madras Music Academy, the duo continues to inspire through their initiatives, Chidagni Foundation and Sakh. Both efforts nurture art, community, and culture with purpose and passion.
Esplanade&Me Specials
Early Bird (25 Jul – 1 Aug 2025, limited tickets)
Black: 20% savings
White: 15% savings
Discover: 15% savings (Min. 2 tickets)
From 1 Aug 2025, 10am
Black: 15% savings
White: 10% savings
Discover: 10% savings (Min. 2 tickets, limited tickets)
Applicable to Standard tickets only. Terms and Conditions apply.
$60 Vouchers for Just $50 – While stocks last!
Only 200 vouchers available on a first-come, first-served basis! Voucher codes can be used until 31 Dec 2025 only.
Terms and conditions apply. An exclusive promotion from Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay in celebration of SG60.
Promo fully redeemed
Great arts experiences begin with Esplanade&Me. Join this membership to enjoy ticket specials on shows at Esplanade, early bird specials, promotions at Esplanade Mall, unlimited access to Offstage and more.
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