By KLTV Newsdesk –

Award-winning choreographer Nina Rajarani MBE brings her internationally toured triple bill of Bharatanatyam and Kathak to Huddersfield

A powerful blend of tradition and innovation will take centre stage this autumn in Huddersfield as “SEVENS”, a triple bill of classical Indian dance, comes to Lawrence Batley Theatre on Wednesday 15 October 2025.

Conceptualised and choreographed by celebrated Bharatanatyam dancer Nina Rajarani MBE, the production has been funded by Arts Council England and promises audiences a rich journey through movement, rhythm and storytelling.

Exploring the Meaning of Seven

Through the mediums of Bharatanatyam and Kathak, and accompanied by original live music, SEVENS delves into the sacred — and sometimes sinful — significance of the number seven.

The production moves from playful and dynamic sequences to soulful, contemplative moments, offering an emotion-filled performance that speaks to both tradition and modernity.

The triple bill is made up of:

• Seven Snags: A fast-paced, flirtatious piece brimming with rhythmic dynamism and cross-rhythms.

• Seven Steps: A duet by Nina Rajarani MBE and vocalist/composer Y Yadavan, inspired by saptapadi, the seven vows of a Hindu marriage ceremony.

• Seven Sins: A thought-provoking ensemble work exploring morality, social norms and the grey areas between right and wrong.

“SEVENS” 2025 Trailer

A Cast of Renowned Artists

Joining Rajarani on stage is an ensemble of UK-based classical Indian dancers and musicians, including Jahnavi Sheth, Abirami Eswar, Mithun Gill, Kirsten Margaret Iona, Kartik Raghunathan, Madhusoodanan Satchithanandan and Yadav Yadavan.

The music has been specially composed by Y Yadavan and Shammi Pithia, with costumes by Sandhya Raman and lighting design by Chris Cuthbert.

Critical Acclaim and Audience Praise

SEVENS premiered in the UK in Autumn 2021 and went on to tour extensively across the country in 2022 to widespread acclaim.

The production undertook a highly successful tour across nine venues in India in December 2024, further strengthening its international reach. SEVENS returns to the UK in 2025, continuing its journey of engaging audiences and expanding its artistic footprint.

Critics and audiences alike have praised the production for its artistry and emotional impact:

• “Rajarani’s take on classical Indian dance is invigorating.” – The Sunday Times

• “The highlight was the deeply moving vocal, composed and sung faultlessly by Y Yadavan.” – The Independent

• “I felt as though I didn’t want the show to end…. Such a treat to the senses.” – Audience member

• “It was amazing. Best dance I’ve seen for years. Perfect timing. Unbelievably complex and energising. Everyone should see it.” – Audience member

• “The live music, the movement, the storytelling, everything came together in a way that truly represented the best of Indian classical art, breaking stereotypes along the way.” – Bhuvan A Sharma, Executive Director, Yorkshire Dance

About Srishti – Nina Rajarani Dance Creations

Founded in 1991, Srishti has been at the forefront of classical Indian dance and music in the UK for over three decades, creating and touring innovative productions while offering training and professional development.

The company has performed across the UK and internationally in Europe, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Morocco, the US and Canada, while maintaining a long-term residency at Harrow Arts Centre.

Tickets are available online on the Lawrence Batley Theatre website or at the Box Office