Akram Khan celebrates Vienna premiere: Female power united in dance!

Akram Khan celebrates Vienna premiere: Female power united in dance!

Akram Khan brings his latest show “Thikra: Night of Remembering” to the Burgtheater in Vienna and will celebrate its Austrian premiere at ImPulsTanz on July 29, 2025. This production addresses matriarchal perspectives and resolutely opposes patriarchal narratives, which is considered a remarkable turn of events in the contemporary dance scene. Khan, whose career began in Vienna, feels very connected to the festival and uses this platform to address important social issues.

In “Thikra,” Khan explores the female essence, which is reflected in the all-female cast of 14 dancers. These dancers represent feminine characteristics in rituals and help portray the cultural diversity and strength of women. Khan himself connects 90% of his artistic work with the memories of his mother, who introduced him to the myths of his culture.

Artistic context and inspiration

Akram Khan, born on July 29, 1974 in London, has also achieved international recognition as a choreographer. He is known for fusing Indian Kathak dance with modern Western dance styles. His extensive training, including at De Montfort University and the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, laid the foundation for his artistic career. For “Thikra” he was inspired by the desert landscape around Al-‘Ula, which also gives the show a deeper dimension.

The premiere of “Thikra” marks not only a milestone in Khan’s career, but also the final performance project of the Akram Khan Company (AKC), which will tour until 2027. Khan plans to build on his previous work and develop new projects, demonstrating his commitment to the advancement of dance and its themes.

Major awards and previous works

Akram Khan has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Critics' Circle National Dance Award for Best Newcomer in 2000 and the Helpmann Awards for Best Choreography in 2007. Some of his important works include "zero degrees", "In-I" and "Outwitting the Devil", which won him the title of Choreographer of the Year in 2020 brought into the German-speaking area.

The metamorphosis of his work is also fascinating, ranging from his early works to his more recent productions, which always address cultural and social issues. His impressive works are invited worldwide and impress with their unique fusion of tradition and modernity.

The connection between personal stories and social issues is a central element of Khan's creative vision, which is clearly noticeable in “Thikra”. By focusing on female perspectives, he aims to inspire others and initiate a dialogue that goes beyond the boundaries of theater.

So reported vienna.at of the upcoming premiere and contents of Khan's latest work, while Wikipedia provides additional information about his life and career. Audiences can look forward to what Khan will present with “Thikra” and how he will continue to influence the artistic landscape.