Finding my Dha

ODC Theater SF, Sept 19-21, 2025

Finding My ‘Dha’ traces the convergence of two themes: a deep inquiry into and deconstruction of ‘Dha’ – a rhythmic element rooted in Kathak dance and music – and Artistic Director Karishma’s personal narratives of liminality. Moving fluidly between kathak and contemporary dance, Finding my ‘Dha’ maps her multicultural identity – shifting between vivid memories of her cultural past and her lived experience in the Western world. 

Drawing on elements of dance and theater, the work explores questions of foreignness and belonging, as she resists, evolves, and integrates diverse movement traditions and embodied languages passed down through multiple cultures and generations. 

This work is supported by Kenneth Rainin Foundation Grant.

Concept & Choreography: Karishma Sharma in collaboration with dance artists.

Performers: Karishma Sharma, Poonam Singh, Ruchi Gupta, Maxine Flasher-Duzgunes, Ayesha Mehta, Zara Mehta

Lighting Designer: Mike Sundquist

Costume Designer: Sumaiya Merchant

Videography: Rapt Productions

Photography: Lydia Daniller