Devam 1 at Barefoot

On June 14 the dancers of Smt. Dr. Nirmala John’s Nirmalanjali Academy in collaboration with Barefoot will perform Devamālā (‘A Garland of Gods’), the first dance performance at the Barefoot Gallery gardens in 15 years. Amidst the fragrance of incense, strings of jasmine and trailing vines, the performance will depict a collection of gods and goddesses from Indian mythology in dance, each a shining gem in the divine garland.

In Colombo, Bharatanatyam performances tend to take place in temple halls and auditoriums. These are typically attended by an audience that is familiar with the art form and are able to decode the signs and symbols that convey its rich narratives. The performance aims to show the experience of this beautiful classical art to a more unfamiliar audience in a more unexpected setting.

Amongst the dimpled miris gal stones and trees of the iconic Barefoot Gallery, the Nirmalanjali dancers will guide the audience through the language of Bharatanatyam’s reddened feet and fingers, providing a gloss and context to each dance in the belief that understanding increases the pleasure, or rasa, of the audience’s experience.

Amidst the fragrance of incense, strings of jasmine and trailing vines, the performance will depict a collection of gods and goddesses from Indian mythology.. in dance, each a shining gem in the divine garland.

Accompanied by live carnatic musicians and vocalists, the performance will communicate aspects of the divine pantheon to the audience through classical movement, music, and expression. To connect with the Barefoot’s important role in Sri Lanka’s artisan tradition, the dancers will wear custom Barefoot fabrics, bringing the artisan craft of handloom into colourful conversation with classical dance.

Dr. Smt. Nirmala John is a distinguished Bharatanatyam teacher, choreographer, and pioneer who has made a lasting impact in Sri Lanka and gained international recognition for her excellence. She was trained at Bharatakalanjali under the renowned philosopher G.V. Iyer. The Nirmalanjali Academy was founded in 1986.

The performance will take place on 14 June 2025 at 7 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketsministry.lk or in advance at the Barefoot Gallery, Monday - Saturday (cash only).