WHETHER it is tackling taboos, finding new ways of telling stories or breaking existing rules, Amina Khayyam has always found innovative ways to present live dance performances. Her leading dance company will present acclaimed shows You&Me and Bird in a Kathak double bill at The Place in London on June 4. Both dissect difficult bonds in dramatically different ways, with one looking at women in abusive relationships and the other focusing on those married to gay husbands.
She has assembled top dancers for shows based on real stories, which feature live music. Eastern Eye caught up with the cool creative to discuss the show, its key messages, her inspirations and why emotion is an essential part of her work. There are many inspirations that drive our company’s work – but the main one comes from my surroundings.
The experiences I encounter and women’s groups I regularly engage with through workshops have amazing stories to tell, which I like telling through dance. I also take something from the time I spent in the studio. It is very fulfilling and exciting for me, as that’s when I’m most vulnerable and challenged to stretch the imagination and creative process.
My motivation to work with women is to give them a platform to share their stories and through them I also find myself learning about cultural expectations that restricts their lifestyle in daily life and how it affects the men in their lives. Both pieces come from there. They may seem contrasting, but do have a.
