2:30 - 3:30 pm
Odissi by Urvasi
Seattle Center House
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Established in 1975, Urvasi has practiced and promoted the research and practice of classical Odissi dance in Seattle and Olympia, WA under the artistic direction of Dr. Ratna Roy. Classical Odissi dance as performed by Urvasi is in the Mahari tradition of Guru Pankaj CharanDas. Little known in most of India, this tradition is characterized by its lasya and its powerful portrayal of female characters from the myths and epics of India. The Urvasi group has also embraced Odissi dancers from other styles. Odissi dance is characterized by a unique sculpture-esque quality, the separation of the upper torso from the lower half of the body and the constant juxtaposition of rhythmic strength with lyrical torso movements. Ratna Roy was one of those primarily responsible for the reconstruction of neo-classical Odissi. She has performed all over Europe, Asia, South Africa, USA, Canada and Mexico. She is a member of the dance faculty in Expressive Arts at the Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA. In the past 10 years, Urvasi has focused on keeping alive the Mahari tradition of Odissi dance.
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