Akram Khan’s "Gigenis": A Potent Adaptation of the Mahabharata

A Return to Intimacy: Scaling Down for Greater Impact

Akram Khan’s latest production, "Gigenis: The Generation of the Earth," marks a significant departure from his typically grandiose style. Known for his ambitious and sometimes bloated works, Khan has this time opted for a more intimate approach, adapting a narrative from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. By focusing on the tragic story of Gandhari, a mother who loses her 100 sons in a devastating war, Khan cleverly narrows the scope to just two sons, drawing parallels to the Cain and Abel tale. This focus on a domestic scale not only fits the stage of the Joyce Theater but also intensifies the emotional impact, making it one of Khan’s most potent works in years.

The Mother’s Lament: A Powerful Narrative Perspective

At the heart of "Gigenis" is the figure of Gandhari, portrayed by the incredible Kapila Venu. The story unfolds from her perspective, told through memory, much like Martha Graham’s approach in her adaptations of classic myths. Venu, a master of Kutiyattam, captivates with her ability to convey profound emotions without the elaborate costumes typical of her traditional art form. Her performance is both terrifying and tragic, as she embodies the elemental force of violence and the deep grief of a mother who has lost everything. This narrative choice allows the audience to deeply connect with her personal tragedy, making the epic story profoundly relatable.

A Celebration of Classical Dance and Ensemble Performance

Khan’s return to his roots in Indian classical dance is evident in "Gigenis," where he seamlessly blends Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and Odissi. The ensemble, comprising expert dancers and musicians, delivers a collective and hybrid choreography that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Standout performances include Sirikalyani Adkoli, who captures the innocence and vitality of youth, and Renjith Babu, who brings tenderness and grace to his role as the king. The interplay between the dancers, particularly in scenes depicting love and rivalry, showcases the richness and expressiveness of classical Indian dance, while maintaining a contemporary appeal.

Themes of Power and Violence: Timeless and Universal

The story of "Gigenis" is driven by themes of power, succession, and the cyclical nature of violence. These themes are timeless and universal, resonating with audiences regardless of cultural background. The struggle for an invisible crown becomes a potent symbol of the corrupting influence of power, reminiscent of the One Ring from Tolkien’s "The Lord of the Rings." Khan’s subtle yet effective choreographic motifs, such as entwining hands representing a bird in flight, add depth to the narrative. The reviewer notes that while the storytelling is clear and impactful, it may lack the sophistication of some classical forms, but this simplicity is also part of its charm.

Music and Sound: Enhancing the Emotional Journey

The score for "Gigenis" is a masterful blend of traditional and original music, performed live by an talented ensemble of musicians. The melodies are layered and complex, complementing the emotional highs and lows of the story. Nina Harris’s double bass playing, for instance, adds a sense of unease even in moments of apparent happiness, foreshadowing the inevitability of tragedy. The sound design, while occasionally overwhelming in its amplification, effectively enhances the tension with sudden booms and the haunting sounds of war. These sonic elements, along with the periodic narration, create a sense of timelessness and inevitability, underscoring the cyclical nature of violence.

Conclusion: A Tragic Triumph

Overall, "Gigenis" is a triumph for Akram Khan, marking a return to the discipline and depth of classical art forms while maintaining a contemporary relevance. The production’s restraint in scale and ambition allows for a more focused, emotionally charged experience. While some elements, such as the repetitive use of sudden silences and booms, may feel slightly overwrought, they do not detract from the overall impact of the piece. As the narrator ominously declares, "This is not war. This is the end of the world." Khan’s "Gigenis" is a powerful reminder of the enduring human cost of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.