An evening of poetry, dance, visuals, and stage performances at Nritya Shakti Studio in Goregaon, West, a suburb of Mumbai, on the evening of the 27th September 2025, is a dream production by poet and songwriter J.K. Roseline in collaboration with renowned dancer and critic Guru Vijay Shanker, who led the choreography of the show.

A unique experiment, blending Indian classical dance, Indian contemporary music, and English lyrical poetry to resonate with the audience in a special way, was indeed a fresh and innovative take on poetry something I loved to do, to show poetry  This is how Roseline describes her collection of lyrical poems, which have been brought to the stage with visuals and music to create a cohesive performance.

J. K. Roseline’s literary work spans different genres. Her expressive style, rich imagery, and melodious patterns make many of her poems apt for musical interpretation. The patriotic piece I Love My Land, I Call It India Bharat… effortlessly transforms into a soulful song, praising and caressing the very spirit of our nation. This was beautifully accompanied by Jill Gaglani’s Kathak performance, which deserves special mention. The way she complemented the words and music was truly captivating.

Equally enchanting was The First Downpour, a lyrical poem celebrating the arrival of the rains. The tune, echoing the rhythmic fall of raindrops, was a magical composition in itself. Enhanced by visuals and the skilled movements and expressions of Guru Vijay Shanker, his performance left the audience breathless. It perfectly matched the poem’s tone and theme.

The evening transitioned seamlessly from patriotic fervor to the beauty of nature, and then to a spiritual note with Hallelujah, a reimagined version of Leonard Cohen’s (1934–2016) classic. Roseline’s Hallelujah emerged as a deeply philosophical and nuanced piece, sung with emotion by Quinton, whose distinctive, resonant voice added remarkable depth. Akash Goswami’s powerful solo lyrical dance to this song felt almost destined, “as if the song chose the dancer rather than the other way around.” His performance explored the themes of mental health and resilience in today’s times, inspiring the audience to look within for strength. The soundtrack, composed by Navin Jawda, was dynamic and energetic, rising to the level of the original. His music filled the air with vibrancy and power.

A special highlight was a three-minute improvised performance by children from the audience to the uplifting lines: “There is a way for happiness to stay, When you smile, you throw sadness away.”

Their innocent, spontaneous dance, filled with joy and free of inhibitions, left the audience spellbound. Smiling happily, the children seemed to be swept away by the ethereal music and its hypnotic beats.

Overall, this was a one-of-a-kind event, an experience with something to take back for everyone. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of poetry, music, visuals, and stage performance.

For poetry workshop online classes and further such event information Roseline can be reached at:

roselinekurian@yahoo.com or on cell phone number 96191 14769

By Roseline Kurian