A Christchurch dance school will bring the love story of Radha and Krishna to the stage next month in a production blending Kathak dance, music and theatre.

Kathak is one of the major classical dance styles of northern India. It tells stories through fast footwork, spins and expressive hand gestures and facial movements, and its name comes from the word for storyteller.

BANSURI: A Tale of Love, presented by Kathakars.NZ School of Dance, will run at the Black Box Theatre, Papa Hou, on Saturday 12 September, with a matinee at 2pm and an evening show at 6.30pm.

Rakesh Verma, from Kathakars.NZ, said the production was created to bring the beauty of Indian classical dance and culture to the Christchurch community.

“Through dance, music and theatre, we wanted to create an experience that celebrates emotions, traditions and the universal connection that art can bring between people,” he said.

The production features more than 55 performers aged from five to over 50, including dancers, actors, musicians, community artists and volunteers. Verma said it was developed over more than a year as a collaborative effort.

Audiences can expect colourful costumes, choreography, live music and theatrical staging, with Broadway-inspired elements, creative props and detailed accessories used to bring the story to life.

Verma said the production also celebrated cultural diversity and gave the wider Christchurch community a chance to experience Indian classical arts and connect with a story of love, devotion and tradition.

Kathakars.NZ School of Dance was founded by Charu Chutani in 2022 with the aim of promoting and preserving Kathak and Indian performing arts in New Zealand. The school gives students a platform to learn, perform and celebrate cultural heritage.

Krishna is one of the most widely worshipped deities in Hinduism, and Radha is his devoted companion. Their bond is one of the best known love stories in Indian tradition, seen as a symbol of devotion and a love that goes beyond the earthly. Krishna is often depicted playing a bamboo flute, the bansuri that gives the show its name.

Chutani said the production was close to her heart.

“The timeless story of Radha and Krishna represents love, devotion and a beautiful connection that transcends generations,” she said. “Through this production, I hope audiences experience the emotions, grace and beauty of Indian classical arts and take away a deeper appreciation of our culture.”