NIB - Natya Initiative Berlin
Our vision is to create a platform for Classical Indian Dance Theatre (Natyam) of younger generation artists in Berlin, celebrating artistic excellence. We commit to a perspective of diversity, mutual respect, open-mindedness, and collaboration as we embark on this journey.
Our mission is to contribute to the development of a dynamic Natyam scene in Berlin, increase its visibility and nurturing the unfolding of its potential.
We aim to support one another’s artistic journeys and the growth of a distinctive Classical Indian Performing Arts scene in Berlin, where diverse practitioners of the younger generation share their work with a growing audience.
This goal will be realized through collaborative efforts, including organizing and co-organizing events, performances, and workshops for and with local artists; all aimed at enriching the artistic growth of local artist.
In the realm of dancers, dance enthusiasts and audiences we perceive ourselves as an intersection where collaboration and mutual support flourishes. Our initiative strives to grow organically, acknowledging the ever-changing nature of the Natyam field and the opportunities it provides rather than adhering to a strictly predetermined agenda.
We advocate for diversity in backgrounds, life experiences, viewpoints, and identities within our field. We recognize that the styles of Natyam have been and continue to be nourished by a multitude of perspectives and creative interpretations. Simultaneously, we are deeply committed to the artforms that have emerged – whether before or after the transformation processes of the 20th century – and we uphold a specific artistic language that we perceive as essence to our art forms.
We are a core team of three performers & teachers of Odissi, Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam: Sri Lavanya Subramaniam, Shebana Devi Mangold and Eva Isolde Balzer. The initiative welcomes collaboration and support from fellow artists and art enthusiasts. Our strength lies within the recognition of differences of our artistic journeys, standpoints, and perspectives. What unites us is the warm embrace of each other’s differences and a shared dedication for Classical Indian Dance Theatre.
The creation of NIB has been inspired by Klassischer Indischer Tanz Deutschland e. V. (KITD e. V.) and we look forward to future collaborations.
Join us on instagram for news and meet the team!