Noble truths

What makes an idea last more than 2,500 years? When Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment in the 6th century B.C. and became the Buddha, he recognized certain truths about existence (the changing nature of all things, the interdependence of all beings, the karmic law of cause and effect) that continue to awaken humanity to this day. Although Hinduism is quite a different religion from Buddhism, it considers Buddha to be the ninth of the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu and accepts the validity of Buddha’s teachings. Now in the wake of such violent intolerance among our fellow human beings this summer and fall (whether in Northern Ireland, Palestine or New York City), it’s heartening to see a production such as Shiksha: Teachings of the Buddha being performed by Nadanta, an organization dedicated to presenting the diversity of Indian culture to the world. The strength of this dance-drama created and choreographed byChaula Thacker lies in its vivid use of Indian classical and folk dance forms in order to both narrate the life of Buddha and expound the core of his teachings. What do precise, ravishing, technically stunning young dancers have to do with the Four Noble Truths? How can the sensuality and bracing energy of some of the best dancers you’ll see anywhere communicate Buddha’s understanding that existence is suffering, that the cause of suffering is desire, that liberation from suffering can be attained on the Eight-fold Path of Mindfulness? Nadanta presents the dynamic answer in a spectacle that’s one part closet drama, one part pageant and, most of all, a first-rate dance recital, transporting us from the breathtaking Hindu “Dashavatar” which inspired the whole project, to young Prince Siddhartha’s early years, through his enlightenment to “Shiksha,” his teachings. Don’t miss this inspiring journey from loveliness to peace, sorely needed to be sure.

Shiksha: Teachings of the Buddha

Created and Choreographed by Chaula Thacker

Performed by Nadanta

Sunday, Sept. 30, 2 p.m.

Michigan Theater

603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor

Call 313-565-4301 for tickets.

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