Dilip Guha ★ New Delhi : After delivering successful performances in Dubai, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad, Movement Mantra and Third Half Theatre brought the play “Still Dancing” to the heart of the nation. In honor of World Parkinson’s Day, the production graced the stage in Delhi on April 11th at the Little Theatre Group Auditorium.
Parkinson’s disease(PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that occurs when brain cells deteriorate. This condition is primarily age-related, and many individuals may require knee replacements as they grow older. Similarly, the degeneration of brain cells and the decrease in dopamine levels contribute to the development of Parkinson’s disease. While it is most commonly diagnosed in the elderly, it can also affect younger individuals. In some cases, patients under the age of 20 may develop a condition known as Juvenile Parkinson’s disease.
With over 10 million people currently living with Parkinson’s worldwide—and cases expected to double within the next two decades- sparking conversations on this urgent health challenge is vital. Parkinson’s Day is observed annually to raise awareness and understanding of this neurodegenerative disorder. The day aims to educate the public about the symptoms of Parkinson’s and the impact it has on individuals. By doing so, it seeks to support the community and reduce the stigma surrounding the condition.
The play “Still Dancing “ produced by Dr. Vonita Singh, through her unwavering dedication as a Movement Coach and Founder of Movement Mantra, has become a beacon of hope for Parkinson’s awareness across the Middle East and India over the past twelve years. Her work transcends conventional approaches, weaving together the threads of creativity and empathy to inspire change. Established in 2013 by Dubai-based Indian classical dancer Dr. Vonita Singh, Movement Mantra stands as a social enterprise devoted to enhancing the lives of individuals facing mobility challenges..
In 2019, Dr. Singh introduced Still Dancing – A Story of a Parkinson’s Hero, a powerful production that uses the mediums of drama and dance to cast a light on the resilience and strength of individuals facing Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Beyond its artistic merits, the production serves as a vital tool for raising awareness about Parkinson’s and its growing impact, offering solace and encouragement to those living with PD and their loved ones.
Her efforts are not only commendable but transformative, reminding us all of the potential to overcome challenges through courage, creativity, and collective support. Dr. Singh’s work stands as a testament to how art and advocacy can beautifully converge to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
“Our production, which is a deeply personal, real-life journey of a PD Hero, aligns perfectly with the global theme for PD 2025 – ‘Empowering the Parkinson’s Community: Shining a Light on Individual Journeys and Collective Strength,” Dr. Singh.
Many people mistakenly believe that Parkinson’s disease only affects older adults, which can lead them to overlook the symptoms of young-onset Parkinson’s disease. This form of the disease can impact individuals before they turn 40. In my experience, I have worked with patients who have young-onset Parkinson’s disease, and their disabilities can worsen, preventing them from leading productive lives. However, the condition is generally regarded as a disease of old age, she remarked.
Highlighting the critical role of movement in managing Parkinson’s, Dr. Vonita Singh explains, “People with Parkinson’s benefit immensely from physical activity, mental stimulation, and social engagement—three elements that dance naturally provides. Dance requires mindful movement, which is exactly what someone with Parkinson’s needs when their automatic motor functions are compromised. ‘Making mindful movement a mantra’ is the message we hope to leave with our audience.”
Written and directed by Sanjeev Dixit, an Award-winning Dubai-based writer and director, the founder of Third Half Theatre brings a remarkable depth of emotion and storytelling to Still Dancing, a production that transcends its subject matter of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) to become a heartfelt exploration of family life. As Dixit reflects on its journey, he highlights the play’s ability to connect deeply with audiences through its simplicity and sincerity, offering a powerful narrative of shared joys, struggles, and resilience.
His repertoire spans award-winning dramas like Sutradhar and Still Dancing, Hindustani Classical Musicals like Draupadi and Haaye Akhtari, immersive theatre experiences such as The Emerald House, and original musicals like Amazing Dubai. His works have graced stages in Delhi and L.A. and renowned events like Emirates Litfest Fringe and Sikka Art Fair. The Indian premiere of Still Dancing marks a heartfelt return to his roots, tracing back to Bandra’s zonal theatre tradition in the 90s
Based on a true Story, Still Dancing portrays the journey of a family, quite like yours and mine, with the same hopes, dreams, triumphs, and struggles. Prepare to be swept away by the music, enthralled by the dance, and moved by a timeless story of our times.
Still Dancing stands as a moving tribute to the strength of the human spirit, weaving drama and dance to raise awareness and inspire compassion in audiences across generations. It is not only a celebration of resilience but also a shining example of how art can transform understanding and unite hearts.
The narrative of Still Dancing beautifully intertwines the universal experiences of hope, love, and resilience with the specific challenges of living with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Inspired by true events, the play portrays the intimate dynamics of a family that mirrors those of countless others—capturing their aspirations, shared joys, and inevitable struggles with an authenticity that resonates deeply.
The poignant line, “It is a strange cage I find myself trapped in. Yet it is still but a cage. I’m here, the same as ever. But no one heeds me,” powerfully encapsulates the inner turmoil and isolation that individuals with Parkinson’s might feel. It is a reminder of the unspoken battles faced by many, while highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding.
United by a shared passion for the cause, Still Dancing boasts a stellar cast, including Vivek Raj Tandon, Mona Ambegaonkar, Shereen Saif, Nakul Bhalla, Amey Mehta, Bhumika Mane, Abhimanyu Gupta, and Avenav Mukherjee.
Choreographed by the talented Kumar Sharma and his dance troupe, Kathak Rockers, the production takes on a mesmerizing dimension. Their seamless fusion of Indian classical and contemporary dance vividly portrays the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Sharma firmly believes in the healing power of movement, which brings the story to life, illustrating how dance can serve as both a form of artistic expression and a source of hope within the community. “Movement through dance is an integral part of this family’s journey—their struggles and resilience,” says Kumar Sharma. “Interpreting dance as a medium for healing has been a privilege, and I’m excited to use this art form to raise awareness within the community.”
Dancers were Kumar Sharma, Anmol Sood, Rahul Sharma, Shammi Kumar, Eshika Choomer, Smriti Bhandari, Meghna Thakur, and Bhavana Sharma from Kathak Rockers
Through captivating music and enthralling dance, the production not only narrates a story of perseverance but also draws the audience into a shared reflection on the strength of the human spirit. It transforms individual struggles into a collective journey, illustrating how art can serve as a bridge to understanding and compassion. It’s truly an homage to resilience and the bonds that sustain us through life’s challenges.
Image : Dilip Guha
Read : Sasraya News, Sunday’s Literature Special | 6th April 2025, Issue 59 | সাশ্রয় নিউজ রবিবারের সাহিত্য স্পেশাল | ৬ এপ্রিল ২০২৫, সংখ্যা ৫৯
