Kathak  Fusion - Teentaal
by Susan Mohip

Abstract

Kathak is one of the Indian Classical Dance forms of Northern India, and is characterized by its sophisticated and intricate footwork, quick turns , steadfast movements and subtle expressions. It is one of the dance styles taught at the University of Trinidad and Tobago and was presented on stage at APAFEST 2019. The impetus for this choreographic presentation was developed through observation with lecturers  in their respective fields identifying the rhythmic intensity of percussion music and Indian Classical Kathak Dance. Collaborative work was conducted with the percussion lab at UTT exploring the intricacies of Kathak Dance and different drum techniques. This innovative piece examined the common similarities of sound, the translation of syllables (bols) through rhythm and movement captivating the exciting moods of the drums specifically the drum kit, Djembe and Tabla. The pleasing sound of the ankle bells (ghungroos) of the Kathak Dancer was focused on as it carried rhythmic structures of dance compositions that then resonated with the drums unfolding various tones and rhythmic patterns. The scoring and notation for these compositions were reviewed and taught to give a clearer understanding of the complexity of the rhythmic patterns from Indian Classical Kathak Dance Music to the African and contemporary rhythms of Trinidad and Tobago set in eight beats. Further research can be developed for better understanding and appreciation  between music, rhythm and classical dance as this can become a wider area of study for exploring  cultural diversities.

Context

Teentaal, consists of a cycle of 16 beats. It is composed of a simple rhythmic structure of counting in four groups with four beats in which a performance can be presented. It is the fundamental taal used in Indian Classsical music and dance. Caribbean Percussive music and traditional Indian Classical kathak pioneered a pathway which led to the birth of a collaborative item set with a percussion ensemble. This dynamic presentation was premiered at National Academy for the Performing Arts, Lord Kitchener Auditorium in May 2019. APAFEST. It was performed by the year four students of Indian Classical Dance and lecturer Mrs. Susan Mohip of UTT. The musical arrangement was done by Assistant Professor Josh Watkins (Percussion), Instructor l Prashant Patessar, Indian Classical Music (Tabla) and Mrs Susan Mohip ( Kathak Exponent). Students of UTT’s percussion lab provided live accompaniment for this creative presentation. The purpose of such a concerted effort was to explore and translate Indian Classical dance syllables (bols) to some of the percussive instruments that is indigenous to the Caribbean, creating a new appreciation for innovative rhythm.

Process

The composing and choreographic journey of teentaal began with consultation between Assistant Professor Josh Watkins, Instructor 1 Prashant Patessar and Kathak Instructor ll  Mrs Susan Mohip. Firstly, Rhythmic compositions were selected based on the tonal quality of the syllables and intricacies of the feet techniques that would be best presented on the various drums. Then, students of the Percussion lab were introduced and taught Indian Classical Music specifically the tabla which was totally new as they never played before. The Scoring of the rhythm Teentaal and kathak compositions (tukras, tihais, paran and lari) for the drumkit , tabla and dejimbe was taught to the students of both genres of music through Indian Classical notation system and staff notation for the drumkit. The musicians were successful in capturing the exciting mood sustaining the dynamics of each instrument.  The others were done through memorizing techniques for the dejimbe. The Choreography was done by Mrs Susan Mohip. Throughout the preparation of the presentation the students worked ardently together in rehearsals.  Costumes were designed by Mrs. Susan Mohip capturing the traditional culture of Indian Classical Kathak Dance

Special Thanks to Nancy Harerra for initiating  the idea. Collaborative work of two departments. The Percussion Lab and Indian Classical Dance of UTT as part of the APAFEST 2019 experience.

Click here to view Method for Kathak Research Photos