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Natural Awakenings Twin Cities

South Indian Classical Dance Performances in Circle Pines

Jaan R. Freeman

Body Mind Circle Holistic Healing Center, in Circle Pines, will host two performances of the classical South Indian dance bharata natyam, performed by Jaan R. Freeman. “Bharata Natyam: For New Audiences” will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on July 13 and from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on July 14.

Freeman is the founder and the artistic director of the Dakshina Palli, Inc., a school, dance company and cultural organization in New York. Freeman’s choreography is a combination of the rhythmic footwork, hand gestures and expressive storytelling of bharata natyam, the most popular and one of the oldest of the Indian classical dances, and the kinetic approach of modern dance. In this unique performance, Freeman will present the interpretation and the Hindu mythology of bharata natyam, as well as interpret the poetry in the sung text. A dialogue with the artist will follow both performances, and snacks will be available for purchase during intermission.

Freeman is a new-generation practitioner of bharata natyam and began studying the art in 1995. He has studied in the U.S., India and Montreal. His work with Dakshina Palli, Inc., helps to preserve the lineage of bharata natyam developed by well-known Indian dancer Tanjore Balasaraswati (1918–1984). Freeman performs and teaches all over North America.

Cost: $16 in advance; $20 at the door; $16 for seniors and students with ID. Location: Body Mind Circle Holistic Healing Center, 301 Village Pkwy., Circle Pines. Seating is limited; reservations recommended. For more information, call 612-850-0071 or visit BodyMindCircle.com.