Performers at the Nritya Sanrachana on Wednesday. Picture by Eastern Projections

Guwahatians were treated to some great stage art at the Nritya Sanrachana at Pragjyoti Auditorium. The mystical and magical appeal of some of the choreography defy description.

However, the fiesta showcasing some of the best contemporary choreographic productions failed to enthuse Guwahatians. Both the organisers of the festival — Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi and the state directorate of cultural affairs — are not too happy about the city’s lukewarm response.

Indeed, the performances by three noted groups of the country have made the fiesta “the best” that the city’s art calender has witnessed in several years.

The festival kicked off with Bhopal-based Ranga-Sri Little Ballet Troupe’s Ramayan, choreographed by the legendary Shanti Bardhan. The concept of “human puppetry” was introduced for the first time in this cult choreographic production.

Kreeda, a nostalgic trip to one’s childhood days, Flying Cranes, an ode to the Siberian birds, and Antim Adhyaya were staged on the second day. Kreeda, staged by Nrityashree, Chennai was choreographed by Bharatanatyam exponents C.V. Chandrasekhar and his wife Jaya.

The performers of Kreeda turned the entire proscenium into a lively playground. Kreeda’s high point is its simplicity in portraying simple yet treasurable childhood moments.

Delhi dance troupe Bhoomika’s Flying Cranes and Antim Adhyaya, choreographed by another living legend Narendra Sharma, is contemporary Indian dance at its best.

The sheer artistry in the drama and dance festival is something to enjoy and relive for a long time to come.