Kāvya: Poetry in Motion

Presented by the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

“Kāvya: Poetry in Motion” is an original Silambam Houston presentation, born from the vision of Artistic Director Lavanya Rajagopalan. This evocative production masterfully interweaves music, dance, and poetry to illuminate a profound truth: that despite separations of culture, language, and time, fundamental human emotions serve as an intrinsic unifying force for humanity.

The narrative tapestry of Kāvya explores themes that resonate across the ages: the promise of new beginnings –  the break of dawn, the genesis of life within the womb, the reawakening of spring, or the tender stirrings of first love; the innate human desire to wander, explore and discover; the poignant beauty of memories; the enduring and vital call for women’s empowerment; the sorrow and yearning inherent in farewells; and a timely call for inclusivity and tolerance.

The production’s rich textual landscape features poetry spanning centuries and continents, from the mystical verses of 13th-century Sufi poets and the concise beauty of 17th-century Japanese Haiku, to the diverse voices of 19th to 21st-century Gaelic, Estonian, Dutch, Spanish, and English literature. These poetic expressions are seamlessly integrated with a musical score that traverses a wide spectrum of classical and contemporary genres, all brought to life through the expressive movements of a range of Indian classical dance genres.

Silambam appears as part of the Hobby Center’s annual initiative that celebrates and supports local artists who broaden our city’s cultural fabric and embody the iconic idea that Houston is Inspired. Building on the Hobby Center’s mission to serve as a connector, convener, and incubator, this program brings audiences and artists together through experiences that center connection and community.

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