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Fusion sparkles

Viewers were in for a blast literally when there was a fusion of dance and fireworks

PYROTECHNIC WIZARDRY Pierre Alain Hubert finishing off Photo: S. Mahinsha

The mood was intense and mystical. No one knew what was in store. Pyrotechnic Pierre Alain Hubert and artist Karl Knapp said it would be a surprise.

The visage of a Kathakali artiste painted by Knapp formed the backdrop with the title `We can't catch the wind.' A spherical floral design on the ground surrounded by earthen pots set the stage.

Soon six Kathakali artistes made their entry and emoted to the tune of live singers and the beat of percussion instruments. As the recital drew to a close, Knapp made his appearance setting ablaze the features of the painting thus making the outlines darker.

He also set fire to the outer edges of the painting's bamboo framework on which sticks of firework had been tied.

Change in beats

The music now changed to robotic sounds conjuring curiosity amongst onlookers. The compere urged people to step away as more fireworks were on the way. Now lay the challenge - Knapp would finish adding final touches to the painting amidst the increasing embers of fireworks.

Quick swipes of colour along the contours seemed to bring the painting to life thereby enhancing its dimension.

In the meantime, Hubert ignited fireworks and sparklers in the pots around the spherical design. Sparks of light erupted into the night sky alternatively capturing the beauty of the painting.

"We've attempted to fuse art and culture in a small way. As the world progresses, companies from East and West collaborate. Good takes over evil. There is a sort of fusion everywhere. We are doing our bit," said Knapp when asked what made him and his partner think up a show as unique as this one.

"We will travel to other parts of India. In Hyderabad, we used Bharatnatyam dancers instead of Kathakali artistes. So far we've been to Romania, Italy, France, Korea, Vietnam and many other countries. While in Romania, we performed with gypsy artistes that drew a crowd of around 2000 people. We also included a sculpture event where the onlookers could also mold alongside us. It was meant to promote a sense of unity and sharing of ideas," he recalls.

The evening concluded on a joyful note as the crowd dispersed after more displays of fireworks.

SAJINI V. SAHADEVAN

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