HA NOI — A classical form of Indian dance, odissi, will be presented to Vietnamese audiences when a group of Indian artists perform in Ha Noi next month.

The 26-member group will stage stunning dances to present the art form's unique features on April 5 at the Cong Nhan Theatre, 42 Trang Tien Street.

Based on archaeological evidence, odissi, which originated in the eastern Indian State of Orissa, is India's oldest surviving dance form. It is particularly distinguished from other classical Indian dances by the signature tribhangi, which literally means "three part breaks" – the independent movement of head, chest and pelvis.

The dance is characterised by various stances, which involve stamping of the feet and striking various postures as seen in Indian sculptures.

The group will also perform at the northern port city of Hai Phong's Municipal Theatre on April 6.

Free invitations can be picked up at the Centre of Art Performing Event, 6th floor, 32 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ha Noi. Tel: (04) 37478625.-VNS