MAD and DIVINE, presented by Samskriti, is an evocative Bharatanatyam dance production conceived, choreographed, and performed by the acclaimed dancer Rama Vaidyanathan. The work delves into the mystical, passionate, and deeply personal poetry of two iconic medieval women saint-poets—the 13th-century Marathi saint Janabai and the 14th-century Kashmiri poet Lalleshwari (Lal Ded).

Through their verse, both women defied the social and religious constraints of their eras to articulate a profound, uninhibited longing for the Supreme. The production highlights the compelling thematic contrast between their spiritual journeys:

Janabai's devotion, characterized by intimate, personified love for the Divine, where the Supreme is experienced as a daily companion, confidante, and protector within the earthly realm.

Lal Ded's realization, rooted in abstract, introspective wisdom, transcending physical form to seek immersion in the infinite, unmanifest Reality.

Using the expressive vocabulary of classical Bharatanatyam—rich in nuanced abhinaya (facial expression) and dynamic movement—Rama Vaidyanathan translates these complex philosophical layers into a vivid narrative of spiritual ecstasy, inquiry, and liberation.

The production is elevated by an original musical score designed specifically to honor the distinct regional, linguistic, and literary heritage of both poets. Live music seamlessly mirrors the dynamic emotional landscape of the poetry, guiding the audience through a transformative artistic and spiritual experience.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 @ 4:00 PM

MATCHBOX 4

RUNTIME:
90 minutes with no intermission

NO LATE SEATING

TICKETS:
RESERVED SEATING
$20 - $50

Students & Seniors with valid IDs receive a $5 discount.
Use code RVS at checkout.

Lap children 3 & under are free.
 

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO MATCH

🎟️ BOX OFFICE & TICKETING 

• Online sales end 30 minutes prior to curtain. After this time, tickets may be available in person at the MATCH Box Office. 
• The Box Office opens 2 hours prior to curtain for Will Call and walk-up sales. 
• All sales are final. No refunds or cancellations after purchase. 
• Have a discount code and need instructions on how to use it? CLICK HERE.
• **Standby/Waiting List: If the performance that you are hoping to attend is SOLD OUT, please CLICK HERE for information on our Standby/Waiting list.
• Tickets for this event are available exclusively through the MATCH Box Office. Tickets purchased from any other website or ticket seller claiming to offer tickets for this event are unauthorized and will not be accepted for admission.

⏱️ BEFORE THE SHOW 

• MATCH Concessions opens 1 hour prior to the start of each event. 
• Seating typically opens 30 minutes prior to curtain. 
• 🚗 LOCATION & PARKING
• 🍽️ AREA RESTAURANTS & BARS

♿ ACCESSIBILITY: MATCH is a fully accessible facility. Questions? Click here to email the box office.