Hardeep Singh Sahota talks about the ideas and stories that inspired Rassam, a photographic project with John Slemensek-Thorne that explores South Asian dance, traditions and celebrations.
Dance forms, such as Bhangra and Giddha, have a rich history and are celebrated by communities across the world. Weddings are a notable celebration that gives the opportunity to explore these dance practices and traditions, otherwise known as ‘Rassams’. Communities from the South Asian diaspora living here in Kirklees are now in their third and fourth generations, and these dances are still being celebrated.
Hardeep will share his insights into these traditions and the background to the exhibition, which is on display in the bar area of Lawrence Batley Theatre (open Wed-Sat, 10am-5pm and 90 minutes before show times).
Project curated by: Hardeep Singh Sahota
Photography by: John Slemensek-Thorne of Studio Bokehgo
Additional Photography: by Hardeep Singh Sahota
With kind support from: Arts Council England, Lawrence Batley Theatre, University of Huddersfield, Studio Bokehgo & Evoke Kirklees
Hardeep Singh Sahota is a Huddersfield-based practitioner and specialist in Bhangra. He wrote the book Bhangra: Mystics, Music and Migration, which originated in academic research and the Heritage Lottery-funded Bhangra Renaissance project. Hardeep is an Affiliate Fellow at the University of Huddersfield, in recognition of his research and work with the local community.
John Slemensek-Thorne is a film director at Studio Bokehgo, an artisan film and photography storytelling studio focused on shining a spotlight on the inspirational, spectacular and talented people, places and moments around the world.
Tuesday 13 May
6.30pm-7.30pm
Gallery, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield HD1 2SP
Free (booking recommended)
Age guidance: all ages
Access Guide: https://www.accessable.co.uk/huddersfield-literature-festival/access-guides/lawrence-batley-theatre
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