Bold Take on Bollywood: ITEM Comes to Metro Arts
Get ready to experience a bold and contemporary dance theatre like never before, as Metro Arts presents ITEM, a fresh take on Bollywood by Brisbane’s Dance Masala Bollywood Dance Company. This innovative performance, set to captivate audiences, flips the script on Indian idealized romance and storytelling tropes, offering a unique perspective on the iconic institution of Bollywood.
ITEM delves into the world of Bollywood as both a desirable lover and a problematic ex-partner, exploring its enduring influence through captivating dance moves, arresting visuals, and eye-catching costumes. Inspired by personal letters, messages, and interviews collected from hundreds of women over the past three years, this new work by Dance Masala examines how media and narratives can impact us subconsciously.
The production deftly juxtaposes the feedback and critiques of die-hard Bollywood fans with real narratives from the Desi diaspora, creating a hot new take on this beloved genre of Indian storytelling. Directed by the multi-talented artist Lisa Fa’alafi (known for her work in Hot Brown Honey), ITEM celebrates and shakes up Bollywood in equal measure.
Andrea Lam, the Creator and Choreographer of ITEM, describes the performance as a “completely earnest work of satire” that stems from a deep love of Bollywood through a feminist lens. The show promises a night of insane dancing and projection-rich immersive theatre, which will make audiences fall in love with Bollywood all over again.
Jo Thomas, Artistic Director and CEO of Metro Arts, expressed excitement about showcasing ITEM and supporting Dance Masala’s exploration of contemporary work. The production marks a new direction for the crew, and Metro Arts is proud to be a part of this creative journey.
The performances will be brought to life by Dance Masala’s talented, all-female Nakhre crew, joined by an impressive cast of celebrated artists, including Saioa Hernández, Deborah Humble, Ludovic Tézier, Agnieszka Rehlis, and Vitalij Kowaljow.
Audiences can experience the magic of ITEM at the New Benner Theatre, Metro Arts, located within the West Village precinct in West End, from 17th to 19th August 2023. Tickets are priced at $35, with a discounted rate of $29 for school groups. The show is recommended for ages 10 and above, and the performance lasts approximately 60 minutes without an interval.
Bollywood enthusiasts can also take their movie moves to the next level in two workshops presented by Dance Masala Director Andrea Lam at Metro Arts on dedicated dates in June and July.
Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind theatrical experience, celebrating the wonders of Bollywood while embracing new perspectives.
To secure your tickets and learn more about ITEM, visit the official Metro Arts website.
