The Living Library: An Evening of Indian Classical Music & Dance

An evening born from the idea that the great works of literature were never meant to stay static on the shelves, the Living Library brings classic works of Indian literature onto the stage at Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library to kick off the 2026 World Literature and Arts Festival. Join us as we reimagine stories and verses through a dialogue between two of India’s profound classical dance traditions.

Kathak dancer Neeharika Tummala brings the story driven art of Kathak to NYPL, with her performance capturing fast footwork balanced by subtle, conversational nuances that define the North Indian tradition, turning literary metaphors into rhythmic reality. Author Nandana Dev Sen will recite her poetry as Neeharika translates them to dance. In a contrasting performance, Bharatanatyam dancer Sloka Iyengar presents the grounded, sculptural power of her dance form which is rooted in South Indian tradition. With its sharp geometry and emotional expressions, Iyengar’s interpretation will translate the spiritual depth of the literature into a visual language.