Umeshi brings ‘Pluralism’ to stage
The Mesh Academy of Dance (MAD) in collaboration with their sister company, Mesh Dance Theatre will soon bring to the public their new production ‘Pluralism’. Founder and Chief Artistic Director of Mesh Academy Umeshi Rajeendra who has choreographed the three dances in the show says it is a reflection of the different thoughts,views and opinions that society has drawn attention to or ignored. ‘Pluralism’ is on April 5 and 6 at the Park Street Stables.
After graduating with a BA in Dance (and a BA in Economics with a political science minor) from the Denison University in the US, Umeshi had the opportunity to work as a performer, collaborator and choreographer in New York. However through her experiences she realised she wanted to teach dance and give something back to the country that has given her so much. “I believe in sharing what you learnt and any experiences that you’ve had. That’s the only way dance will ever grow.’” Thus Umeshi returned to Sri Lanka and launched the Mesh Dance Academy in 2015.
As a company, Umeshi shares that she and her team believe “that arts and education are crucial for understanding society and for any country to progress in a way that is equal and that is diverse and very welcoming.” The show Pluralism is “not just about diversity, or tolerance or relativism”, it’s an energetic engagement that actively seeks to understand and create dialogue about current ideas, perceptions and thoughts around the world. The show supports the dancers – and is not solely to premiere the three works that the company has been tirelessly working on. With the lack of backing for arts in Sri Lanka, the proceeds will help the dancers travel internationally and get the training they require. The funds from the show will also be in aid of Room to Read, a non-profit organisation that works with underprivileged children in education.
Pluralism will be held on April 5 and 6 at the Park Street Stables, 50/1, Park Street, Colombo 2 at 7.30p.m. with an additional show at 3 p.m. on April 6. Tickets are priced at Rs. 1000, 2000 and 3000 and are available on www.taktikbook.lk