Ballet from India returns to Met

After a successful performance here in November 2004, Dance Ballet of India returns to The Met on Saturday to present “Krishna Bhakti,” a program clad in saturated colors and complex textures.

The intricate dance mirrors the intricacies of its costuming and staging. Dancer-choreographer Jayanthi Raman and classically trained dancers and musicians perform the ballet that incorporates dance forms from throughout India.

The Manipuri dance style from northeastern India is traditional and features gentle footwork. The Bharatha Natyam style from southern India is noted for its intricate footwork and eloquent arm, hand and facial expressions.

While the latter is one of the oldest classical dance forms in India, it still holds a prominent place in modern culture. Over the centuries, innovations and creativity have molded it into its contemporary style.

Indian dance originates from the ecstasy of worship and the worshipper’s goal to become one with the god. To the rhythm of drums and the lyricism of flutes, dancers traditionally perform with a sense of abandonment, yet characterized by strict form.

“Krishna Bhakti” explores the synergy of two ancient mystics who were sainted women poets devoted to the Hindu god Krishna. Actual facts of the saints’ lives are lost in legend, but their original songs in praise of Krishna remain popular in India today.

The ballet’s original musical score is the composition of recognized Indian artists and features the major systems of classical Indian music: Hin from the north and Carnatic from the south.

Martha Ullman West, a Dance Magazine correspondent, says Raman’s dances are accessible.

“The mix of mime, narrative dancing, ritual dancing and musical interludes was so skillfully done,” she wrote in a recent review, “that the audience was thoroughly engaged.”

In addition to the evening performance, presented by Spokane’s South Asia Cultural Association, the artists will present a free lecture-demonstration at the Spokane Community College Lair on Saturday from 1:30 to 2 p.m.

A Taste of India will cater light snacks and drinks for purchase beginning at 6 p.m. at The Met.