Garbh

"The dancers showed astonishing artistry & skill in shaping the release of the soul"

Garbh is an innovative outdoor dance work reimagining the ancient Gujarati folk dance 'Garba' with contemporary choreography. An ensemble of dancers will lead this vibrant performance around a large clay lantern in a symbolic ritual, transporting audiences to the deserts of India with its immersive set, soundscape, and costumes.

In a journey through the human life cycle, Garbh (Womb) honours the divine feminine energy 'Shakti' as it explores themes of community, creation, motherhood, unity and resilience in a soulful celebration of life.

Who are the artists?

Shyam Dattani is a London-based mover and maker whose work is grounded by collectivity, care and the community. He won the South Asian Dance category of BBC Young Dancer 2017 & was a grand finalist at Sadler’s Wells, and has performed extensively with leading choreographers and companies, such as Amina Khayyam Dance Co, Beeja and Srishti as well as recently touring in Canada.

Mira Salat is a choreographer, performer, and educator with over 18 years of experience in South Asian dance. Recognised as one of the top 40 South Asian artists in the UK by Akademi, Mira continues to contribute significantly to the British arts landscape. With over 400 performances to her name, she has appeared in some of the country’s most esteemed venues, including the Royal Opera House, Sadler’s Wells, The Barbican, The Curve Theatre, The Lowry, City Hall, and The British Museum.

Where? Museum Gardens

When? Sunday 6th Sep, 12:30pm and 3pm

Part of our free outdoor programme.

Credits:

Supported by Without Walls and commissioned by Birmingham Weekender, Freedom Festival, An Indian Summer, Activate/Inside Out Dorset, Stockton International Riverside Festival and Brighton Festival. Also by Richmond Arts & Ideas Festival 2025 and Co-Produced by Pagrav Dance Company with funding from Arts Council England.

Image Credits: Rageelu Gujarat