With Kathak & Opera Antara Bhardwaj is Bridging Worlds

By MANISHA KOSHY

SAN JOSE, CA – Antara Bhardwaj, a dynamic Kathak artist and filmmaker, is being innovative in the world of opera by blending the classical Indian dance form with Western operatic traditions. As the founder of Antara Asthaayi Dance and a passionate advocate for cultural fusion, Bhardwaj’s innovative choreography is transforming how dance is perceived on the opera stage. Her recent collaboration with Opera San José’s production of The Magic Flute which is now playing, showcases her bold vision and creative approach.

Bhardwaj’s journey into opera began in 2016 when she worked with EnActe Arts on The Conference of the Birds. This initial foray into the operatic world set the stage for her current role as choreographer and cultural consultant for The Magic Flute. “Working with traditional dance forms for the first time in opera was a transformative experience,” she told India-West in a recent interview. This partnership has allowed Bhardwaj to explore new artistic possibilities and bridge the gap between different cultural worlds.

One of Bhardwaj’s most significant contributions to Opera San José’s The Magic Flute is her reimagining of the production’s choreography. Collaborating closely with director Brad Dalton, she introduced new characters adding a whimsical, childlike perspective to the opera’s opening sequence. “We created new characters for six children and staged the entire overture,” Bhardwaj explains. This playful introduction sets the tone for the rest of the performance, seamlessly blending dance and opera from the very beginning.

Throughout the opera, Bhardwaj brings to life the birds, animals, and mystical creatures that populate The Magic Flute’s fantastical world. “I aimed to create a dynamic fusion of Kathak with the Western classical style,” she says, emphasizing the importance of merging traditions to create something fresh and exciting visually.

Though Bhardwaj respects the traditional boundaries of opera, especially in terms of its music, she sees vast potential in reimagining its visual and theatrical elements. “You can take an opera and set it in Colonial India or another cultural setting while still maintaining the integrity of the music,” she suggests, pointing to the possibilities of cultural reinterpretation within the art form.

Her collaboration with Opera San José has been particularly rewarding, as the company values authenticity and artistic freedom. “Opera San José is committed to a deep, meaningful relationship with artists,” Bhardwaj notes. “They’ve given me the freedom to retain the authenticity of my dance form while contributing to something as grand as opera.”

Evolve Dance

Bhardwaj’s work is driven by a passion for using art to connect cultures and communities. As a Kathak teacher for over 15 years, she has trained students of all ages and backgrounds. Her vision is to create a modern-day gurukul where students can not only learn but also evolve the dance form. “My goal is to create a contemporary gurukul where students can continue their practice and evolve the dance form,” she shares.

Fusion is central to Bhardwaj’s artistic philosophy. Quoting her mentor, Grammy-winning tabla maestro Sandeep Das, she reflects, “What is today’s innovation is tomorrow’s tradition.” Bhardwaj believes her students will carry Kathak into the future, introducing it to new audiences and ensuring its continued relevance in a rapidly changing world.