A Celebration of Indian Dance, History and Textiles at Reading Central Library
THE LIFE and work of one of the most acclaimed exponents of classical Indian dance, Ram Gopal, will be celebrated this September with a day of colourful dance, history and costume.
The free all day event on Saturday 24th September is being hosted at Reading Central Library.
As well as dance workshops and historical talks, members of the public are invited to bring their own family heirloom fabrics for care advice from Victoria & Albert Museum conservators.
The day has been organised by SADAA (South Asian Diaspora Arts Archive) and the Victoria & Albert Museum, with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Starting at 10am, with an all-day exhibition and rolling film presentation until 5pm, the day is packed full of fascinating talks and activities:
- 11am – 5pm Our Fabrics Tell Our Family Histories: Drop in with your own precious textiles and the V&A’s own Material Girls will advise on care and storage;
- 2.30pm My friend Ram Gopal – talk by Dr Ann David, Head of Dance at Roehampton University (Booking advised);
- 3.45pm Dance workshop with choreographer Shane Shabhu (Booking essential);
- 6pm Dance recitals by local groups Kalakunj and Kala The Arts; and Shane Shambhu’s own dance group Incarnations (Booking advised).
All events are free, but booking in advance is advised. To book or find out more, call 0118 9015950 or email events@readinglibraries.org.uk
Cllr Paul Gittings, Lead Councillor for Culture, said: “This free event, celebrating the life and work of Ram Gopal, is another example of the rich cultural entertainment available across Reading this year. This is a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy a taste of Indian culture. I’d encourage people to book in for the dance workshops and recitals to avoid disappointment.”
