This May, the Brighton Festival welcomes a mesmerising exploration of fire’s dual nature in Jwala (Rising Flame), a solo Bharatanatyam performance by the acclaimed dancer and choreographer Mythili Prakash. Scheduled for two evenings, Monday 5 and Tuesday 6 May at 7.30pm at the historic Theatre Royal Brighton, this evocative work promises to be a highlight of the festival’s dance programme.
A Dance of Destruction and Renewal
Jwala, meaning “flame” in Sanskrit, delves into the complex symbolism of fire, as both a force of destruction and a beacon of hope. Born from Prakash’s personal experiences of loss, the performance uses the classical Indian dance form Bharatanatyam to navigate themes of grief, resilience, and transformation. Through intricate movements and expressive storytelling, Prakash embodies the contradictions inherent in fire, reflecting on its capacity to both devastate and illuminate.
Bridging Tradition and Contemporary Narratives
Renowned for her ability to infuse traditional Bharatanatyam with contemporary relevance, Prakash challenges societal norms and explores cultural narratives, particularly those surrounding femininity. Her work in Jwala reimagines classical aesthetics to address universal human experiences, making the performance accessible and resonant across diverse audiences.
Accompanied by Live Music
Enhancing the emotive power of the dance, Jwala features live musical accompaniment by a talented ensemble:
- Susha Rangarajan – Vocals
- Ashwath Narayanan – Vocals
- Sumesh Narayanan – Mridangam, Vocals
- Sayee Rakshith – Violin, Vocals
Their live performance adds depth and immediacy to the narrative, creating a rich, immersive experience for the audience.
Critical Acclaim
Jwala has garnered praise from critics and fellow artists alike. The Guardian described Prakash as “hugely skilled and technically exact,” noting how she transforms the stage into “a realm of forms, feelings and ideas.” The New York Times highlighted her ability to embody the essence of fire, stating that her “warmth and brightness as a performer suit the theme.”
Event Details
- Dates: Monday 5 & Tuesday 6 May 2025
- Time: 7.30pm (Doors open at 7pm)
- Venue: Theatre Royal Brighton
- Tickets: £15, £20, £25; Under 26s £15; Members First Night £20
- Duration: 1 hour (no interval)
- Booking: Brighton Festival – Jwala (Rising Flame)
Jwala (Rising Flame) is supported by The Pebble Trust and aligns with Brighton Festival 2025’s theme of “New Dawn,” curated by Guest Director Anoushka Shankar. This performance offers a profound reflection on the human spirit’s capacity to endure and transform, making it a must-see event for festival-goers.
Experience the transformative power of dance and storytelling in Jwala, where tradition meets contemporary expression in a celebration of resilience and hope.
Read more:
Brighton Festival 2025 Classical Music Highlights
Brighton Festival 2025: Dance And Circus Highlights
