‘Breaking Ground’ is a new solo dance production by award winning Kathak dancer Sonia Chandaria Tillu, that explores current and complex issues of inter-generational migration and its impact on cultural identity.

Sonia blends classical and contemporary Kathak to trace her family’s personal migratory journey across Gujarat, Kenya and the UK. Narrated through the experience of an unusual protagonist – a mango tree, the production explores how burdensome cultural ‘baggage’ could be construed as heritage.

Produced by Sona Lisa Dance Company, Breaking Ground has been commissioned by Sampad, and is supported by British Council’s new Arts new Audiences scheme and Arts Council England.

Choreography: Urja Desai Thakore
Music: Shammi Pithia
Dramaturgy: Lou Cope
Poetry: Lantern Meet Foundation (Uganda)

This project is also supported by the following Partners: Attenborough Arts Centre, Samir Bhamra (Phizzical Productions), Spark Arts, Pagrav Dance Company, Aakash Odedra Company (Desi Masti Studio), Two Brown Girls.

Photo credit: Simon Richardson