Exploring New Lighting Approaches and Their Impact on Contemporary Kathak Performance

Isuru Rushan Kapuduwa

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.65373

Exploring New Lighting Approaches and Their Impact on Contemporary Kathak Performance

Author(s)	Mr. Isuru Rushan Kapuduwa
Country	India
Abstract	Abstract The Kathak dance tradition of North India is nourished by the concepts of 'nritta' and 'nritya'. Originating as an art form of storytelling, Kathak dance transformed into a spiritual and cultural expression through movement, emotion, and rhythm and continued to develop and establish during the Mughal era. Kathak dance choreography can be presented in a highly expressive manner due to various innovations and approaches that have emerged with technological advancements in the contemporary context. That is, new lighting techniques, innovative sound management techniques, backdrop designs, various costume designs, new make-up techniques, and the use of various stages have contributed to this. This study focuses on contemporary Kathak dance performances that use modern lighting techniques. This study aims to explore and analyse the impact of new lighting approaches and techniques used in contemporary Kathak choreography on that dance. The research question is: How important is the use of innovative lighting approaches and techniques for contemporary Kathak choreography? A qualitative research approach was used for this research, and primary data was obtained through observation of live performances or recorded videos, online sources, interviews, audience feedback, and practice-based exploration, and secondary data was obtained through library studies. Data will be analysed using mixed research methods, including thematic analysis, comparative analysis, visual analysis and performance analysis. Dance aesthetic theory and performance study theories were used as the theoretical framework. Contemporary choreography has been used as the research sample. Lighting is vital to contemporary Kathak dancing and is constantly evolving. Moving away from the conventional practice of lighting the dancer, innovative lighting techniques have been employed to enhance the emotional and conceptual aspects of Kathak choreography and to give an engaging aesthetic experience for the audience.
Keywords	Kathak, Contemporary, Choreography, lighting, New Approach
Field	Arts
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On	2025-12-31
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.65373

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Exploring New Lighting Approaches and Their Impact on Contemporary Kathak Performance

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