‘SPEAK’, the Kathak-Tap Collaboration, Premieres in New York at 92NY
Our take
The Leela Dance Collective's New York premiere of *SPEAK* at the 92nd Street Y marks a significant moment in the world of dance, highlighting a beautiful fusion of cultures through kathak and tap dance. Set to take place on February 21 as part of the What Flows Between Us Festival and the Women Move the World Harkness Mainstage Series, *SPEAK* is not merely a performance; it is a celebration of artistry that draws from the deep-rooted traditions of both North Indian classical dance and American jazz. This collaborative effort, conceived by kathak virtuosos Rachna Nivas and Rukhmani Mehta alongside tap legends Michelle Dorrance and Dormeshia, represents a profound dialogue between different artistic heritages, showcasing how rhythm and improvisation can bridge diverse cultural landscapes.
In a world where the arts often reflect societal dynamics, this production emerges at a crucial time. The blending of kathak and tap is emblematic of a broader movement towards inclusivity and innovation in the dance community. This collaboration is reminiscent of other recent highlights in the dance world, such as the American Ballet Theatre’s upcoming honor of actress Katie Holmes at their 2026 Spring Gala, which underscores the importance of recognizing diverse talents and contributions to the art form. Similarly, the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts’ *Summer for the City* initiative is another reminder of how dance can serve as a unifying force, bringing together various styles and communities to celebrate creativity and expression.
*SPEAK* is not just about technique; it embodies a shared reverence for history and lineage, which is vital in preserving these art forms while also pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve together. The dialogue that has flourished among the artists over the years reflects an understanding that dance transcends mere performance—it is a living, breathing entity that evolves through collaboration and mutual respect. This is particularly significant in a time when many artists are seeking ways to connect with audiences on deeper levels. The emotional weight and cultural significance carried by *SPEAK* will resonate with attendees, potentially inspiring them to explore their own relationships with dance, culture, and identity.
As we look forward to the premiere, it is essential to consider the implications of such collaborations for the future of dance. Will we see more productions that break traditional boundaries and invite creative dialogues across genres? How might these collaborations influence the next generation of dancers, who are increasingly tasked with understanding and navigating a multicultural world? The success of *SPEAK* could pave the way for similar initiatives, fostering a richer, more diverse performing arts landscape that invites everyone to partake in the joy of movement.
In essence, *SPEAK* stands as a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity, and it challenges us to reflect on our own artistic expressions. As we embrace the innovative spirit of this performance, it is worth watching how the dance community continues to evolve and adapt, ensuring that every voice is heard and celebrated. The world of dance is ever-changing, and productions like *SPEAK* are crucial in shaping its vibrant future.
Leela Dance Collective announces the New York Premiere of SPEAK, taking place on February 21 at the 92nd Street Y, New York, as part of the What Flows Between Us Festival and the Women Move the World Harkness Mainstage Series.
SPEAK is an evening of kathak dance, tap dance, and live North Indian classical music and American jazz music, conceived of and created by kathak virtuosos Rachna Nivas and Rukhmani Mehta, and starring Nivas, Mehta, and tap legends Michelle Dorrance and Dormeshia. Developed over several years of dialogue and artistic exchange amongst these veteran kathak and tap artists, SPEAK was born of deep kinship, shared reverence for history and lineage, and a love of rhythm and improvisation.
Though born continents and centuries apart, Indian kathak and American tap dance share strikingly similar paths of resilience and defiance, each one inseparable from the triumphs and trials of the communities that gave them life. These dynamic, percussive traditions come together in SPEAK, a captivating collaboration that interweaves rhythm, poetry, storytelling, music, and dance.
Since its 2017 U.S. premiere to sold-out audiences in San Francisco, CA, SPEAK has toured nationally and to major cities across India earning widespread critical acclaim. The production is now being remounted and further developed through a Works & Process residency at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center ahead of its New York premiere. Critics have hailed the work as both artistically thrilling and socially resonant: Jeff Slayton of the L.A. Dance Chronicle called SPEAK “an evening of rhythmic magic,” while Laura Bleiberg of the Los Angeles Times praised its “excellent musicianship” and described it as “a sunny break from our me-first fractured world.”
SPEAK carries forward the legacy of iconic artists like Pandit Chitresh Das, Dr. Jimmy Slyde, and James Buster Brown, while elevating the voices of powerful female choreographers and performers. Mehta, Nivas, Dorrance, and Dormeshia are joined by some of the world’s leading Indian classical and jazz musicians: Jayanta Banerjee (sitar), Satyaprakash Mishra (tabla), Ambarish Das (vocals), Caili O’Doherty (piano), Allison MIller (drums), Noah Garabedian (bass).
Against the backdrop of social fragmentation and politics of othering, SPEAK feels more urgent than ever—reminding audiences of the universal power of dance and music to connect across histories, borders, and identities. Mehta and Nivas state that “SPEAK is a testament to the beauty and possibility born of diversity and a reflection of the America we know and love: multi-faceted, plural and vibrant.”
SPEAK featuring Rachna Nivas, Rukhmani Mehta, Michelle Dorrance, Dormeshia will be at Kaufmann Concert Hall on Saturday, February 21 at 7 pm. Tickets start at $55. Book now at https://www.92ny.org/event/what-flows-between-us
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