Mediocrity- prevalent but not endangering

Posted by Sangeetha (59.144.16.126) on January 03, 2006 at 08:50:34:

In Reply to: Some pertinent questions on Indian classical dance posted by Ranjana on January 03, 2006 at 08:49:36:

I agree with all the points mentioned here.The excessive availability of skill vs demand has lead to the degradation of almost all spheres of work. Stiff competition has
lead to performers to innovate and look for new ways to draw attention.
One way of looking at it would be that, to reach the masses or the layman not very much into the Classical art forms,it would be preferable to have a group
performance where colours and geometric formations attract his sensibilities.Solo rich compositions are for those who can emote with the dancers and identify with
the sthayi bhava of the composition. This comes but naturally to a considerably smaller percentage of the audience. The question then would be, should you "dilute"
the traditional classical forms to reach the masses?Can you get more people watching and interested if you simplify ? Quite a few Carnatic Musicians were asked this
question during the December Seaon concerts arranged by Jaya Tv. Pat came the answer from all those who were interviewed." Traditional arts have a specific
structure and organization. It is not condusive to dilute them in any aspect to reach a wider audience. Then the form loses its authenticity and that would be a pity"
Are dancers taking a less conservative approach?
Is it because dance gets less patronage?
What here does electronifying music mean? Is it ok to dance with recorded music?What options do we have when we cant afford an orchestra? Esp. if the
programme is hosted abroad. And how many can afford a commercial recording. It costs around 30,000Rs for a Margam?
Can we blame Gurus who have taken teaching as a Profession ? How do they support their financial needs? Do all Sishyas today learn to enjoy as it was the order
once upon a time. Or do they like to have their CVs filled with their performances?Some artistes today have none of the Humility, Modesty, and a Spiritual qulaity.
Confidence and Packaging wins today. Can we blame them for this?
Would Government Funding help? Should attitudes change? How will such changes be effected? Should art appreciation be a part of elementary curriculum? Should
Bollywood dancing be avoided in schools? These are all related questions that have troubling ardent Classical Dance lovers.Hope we find the correct answers to all
of these. But finally there are times I feel one has to be blessed by the Almighty Himself to learn and appreciate these Great and Divine Art forms.He decides dosent
He?