At the fall edition of the Bombay Times Fashion Week over 18 designers lined up to show their collections. While fashion obviously took centre stage at the event, dance, drama and music came a close second. Designers and showrunners incorporated live singing, dancing, and even spoken word on the runway.
From actress Shriya Saran opening a show with her semi-classical dance form to singer Raghav Sachar performing live for another, various other acts also found a significant place at this year’s BTFW. Designer Neeta Lulla , who started her career as a fashion choreographer in 1985, says that integrating dance and drama into fashion shows is not a new concept. “Back in the day, there were roughly three kinds of fashion shows.
One happened in the couture houses or intimate gatherings. Then, there were the professional shows where models walked the ramp. And the third kind was a grand show which, along with the fashion show, also included dance and musical performances.
Such gimmicks added more oomph to a show and attracted more audiences. Just seeing models strut up and down on a ramp was not the kind of show that the audience enjoyed much.” This year, in Neeta’s show, singer-model Sushant Divgikar performed at the beginning and at the end of the show.
“I believe platforms that encourage and engage amalgamation of different art forms should always be welcomed. While some might not want to mix performance art forms such as dance and singing with runway shows, I think it is a designer’s call entirely,” says Sushant. Fashion designer Mac Duggal shares, “By incorporating various art forms, we enrich the sensory experience for the audience, elevating the presentation beyond mere clothing.
Each element contributes to the narrative of the collection, enhancing its depth and resonance.” Raghav, who sang live during this year’s BTFW, says, “It’s great that music and other art forms are getting more intertwined with fashion shows. I have been doing this since 2003 when I just entered the scene.
Social media has helped make it popular. In the West, it’s common practice to have different performers showcase their talent while models show off beautiful garments. It breaks the monotony and adds flavour to the shows.
” Fashion choreographer Avinash Payal, who was a part of BTFW, says that the need to add performances in a fashion show has grown. “Sponsors and designers are open to the idea of mixing performing arts with fashion shows. We often add some snippets of performances to add to the visual appeal of the show.
” Former model and fashion choreographer Anjali Raut shares, “I frequently collaborate with sponsors and designers who suggest incorporating additional art forms into the show to enhance its overall appeal. Whenever I choreograph, I respect and maintain the essence and integrity of each art form throughout the choreography. This means understanding the nuances and intricacies of all art forms.
It is important to understand which performance goes well with which fashion show.” Fashion designer Dr Rishi Roy, shares, “While some may argue that integrating other art forms detracts from the main focus of the show, we believe it adds depth and richness to the overall presentation.” At designer Esha Amin ’s show, the opening act was model Candice Pinto’s enactment of a jazz player.
“It’s interesting to add relevant performances and props to create an ambience that’s in sync with the mood and theme of the show as long as it’s done tastefully,” says Esha..
