collaborations
Storytelling and music are two complimentary artforms that enhance the experience of the other. Many Carnatic classical musicians composed songs with context, that stories and explanation bring out. Similarly, many philosophical ideas and tenets can be expressed through melody: lyrics, manodharma and ragas. Vivek Sadasivam and Vinay Varanasi, a public speaker, have been presenting programs that combine narrative, music and art. Their productions contain stories from Puranas, Itihasas along with music of various composers. Sometimes, an element of visual art done by Vinay is also added to the production to enhance the experience. These programs are intertwined in a way to seamlessly move between music and speech, such that the listener enjoys the experience in a wholesome manner. This combination draws audiences with varied interests, and aims to bring many more to approach cultural arenas (music, spirituality, art) more freely and with less intimidation.
Some themes covered so far are Divyākshi (Exploring compositions and stories on Kamakshi, Meenakshi & Visalakshi), Kshetra Prema (Stories and songs from temples of India), Shri Rama Sundari (Showcasing connections between Rama & Devi), Dhātri (Series exploring connections between nature, deities and music), Prānānjaneya (Connections between Hanuman and Prana) and Parva (Five part series on lesser known festivals of India).
For bookings, email: sadasivam.vivek@gmail.com or contactvaranasi@gmail.com
Vivek has collaborated with the bharatnatyam dancer duo Shijith n Parvathy on a thematic performance titled 'Ardhanari'. He has also worked with other bharatanatyam dancers of repute, Sri. Praveen Kumar and Smt. Ramaa Venugopalan.
Vivek has also collaborated on a historical heritage tour along the banks of the Kaveri, organised by eminent historian V. Sriram, where he has provided music in the temples visited.
He has performed as a guest singer in new age bands Subramania and the Thayir Sadam Project ft. artistes Ambi Subramaniam, Bindu Subramaniam, Mahesh Raghvan among others.