The Absence of PRESENCE

The Absence of PRESENCE is a multidisciplinary performance commissioned by the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), bringing together classical Kathak, contemporary movement, Indian and Western musical traditions, and orchestral composition to explore the devastating impact of war on children.

Conceived and choreographed by Aditi Mangaldas, the production focuses on childhoods interrupted by conflict, displacement, violence and loss. It gives artistic expression to the experiences of children who have been wounded, orphaned or forced to leave their homes, while also reflecting on the human capacity to imagine, endure and seek hope amid suffering.

The work features original music composed by Rushil Ranjan, performed in collaboration with the Symphony Orchestra of India under conductor Melvin Tay. Through dance, music, set design and lighting, the production moves between memory, grief and the persistent human instinct to survive.

Creative Team:

• Concept and Choreography: Aditi Mangaldas

• Music Composer: Rushil Ranjan

• Set Design: Manish Kansara

• Lighting Design: Ryan Stafford

• Mentor: Morag Deyes

• Music Conductor: Melvin Tay

• Creative Development: Deepak Kurki Shivaswamy

• Costume Design: Urvashi Kaur

• Technical Director: Christopher Flux

• Rehearsal Director: Gaurav Bhatti

Aditi Mangaldas is an internationally acclaimed Kathak dancer and choreographer known for combining classical technique with contemporary movement. The Symphony Orchestra of India, based at the NCPA, brings together musicians from Indian and international classical music traditions.

The production offers audiences a moving artistic reflection on the loss of childhood through conflict, while highlighting resilience, imagination and the enduring possibility of hope.