Building on the launch in Parliament of The Mela Report, Nutkhut is launching the Mela Roadshow, a national tour engaging politicians, policymakers, and the public at Mela partnership members’ festivals from Southampton to Newcastle, Aldershot to Manchester, and Luton to Cumbria.
The Roadshow aims to deepen cultural dialogue and promote unity through interactive forums and vibrant performances, addressing issues like urban regeneration and youth engagement.
Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport said:
“Culture has the power to bring people together, to foster understanding and respect among diverse communities. It is a vital tool for building the inclusive and vibrant society we all strive for.”
Nutkhut, meaning ‘mischief,’ honours our town’s military heritage with a lively new dance company. Local talent, inspired by historical links, brings energetic performances that celebrate community spirit and cultural legacy.
“Plenty Drama! Plenty Passion! Pure Joy and Fun!” Mrs Thapa – Audience member “
This newly formed group of local residents recognises the importance of the region’s military history whilst acknowledging the love and thirst people have when art transforms public spaces through the power of people coming together.” Simmy Gupta Co Artistic Director.
Everything Nutkhut does, it does with a twist—it’s never quite what you expect. Nutkhut’s Bollywood Battalion, is a brand-new dance group composed of local residents from the district of Rushmoor in Hampshire, in England. This multi-generational ensemble features a diverse range of ages, nationalities, and abilities, including Army veterans, Ukrainian refugees, Indian IT experts, compassionate care workers, and individuals both young and old.
It’s a vibrant mix representing the best of British and international diversity. Nutkhut’s philosophy is to bring people together through exciting new experiences that often transform a community and the space in which people live and work. The golden thread running through our company is the joy of coming together to be part of something unique and special.
No two Nutkhut shows are the same, from caring for our communities to taking our local environment into consideration, from untold stories to bringing to life curious and creative stories. For Victoria Day 2024, Nutkhut created a unique dance choreography, reimagining this historical event by turning it on its head, inside out, and upside down.
The choreography, created by Simmy Gupta, Co-Artistic Director, was set to the track “London Thumakda” from the Bollywood film Queen. The lyrics of this song reflect the experiences of a young woman in the UK, resonating with the film’s game-changing, low-budget, women-centric narrative. The performance included references to Queen Victoria and the ringing of the chimes of Big Ben, symbolising a period of British history that is evolving and changing.
If you have an idea or simply want to make a creative change locally, please get in touch. If you’d like to be part of something special, please get in touch or join our mailing list—or both!
Nutkhut is thrilled to present our newest group, The Bollywood Battalion, at Aldershot’s Victoria Day this Saturday. Our newly formed dance group, comprising local Rushmoor residents, embodies our mission to unite diverse communities.
“Creating dance in public spaces with communities is my passion. From beginners to the experienced, from veterans to the newly arrived, I love how the language of dance can bring people together!” Simmy Gupta, Nutkhut
This unique ensemble features Gurkha Army Veterans, Ukrainian refugees, local youth, and retired groups, reflecting Nutkhut’s commitment to fostering connections among people who might not otherwise meet. Victoria Day, the highlight of Aldershot’s summer, showcases the town’s vibrant community spirit.
As we parade through the heart of Aldershot, we celebrate cultural awareness and partnership, honouring the town’s rich military history and diverse population.
Photo credit: The Bollywood Battalion-Victoria Day 2023, Hayley Madden
“Great dancers are not great because of their technique, they are great because of their passion.” Martha Graham
The Redcar Kite Festival, a fantastic weekend event held on Redcar seafront, with kites of all shapes and sizes. This lively festival brought the community together, turning the sky into a colourful spectacle.
“It was an inclusive, special weekend of craft activity which very few school aged children get to enjoy – watching grandparents and grandchildren design and construct together was extra special ” Ajay Chhabra, Nutkhut
With the North Sea as a dramatic backdrop, the festival captures the essence of Redcar and what sets it apart isn’t just the variety of kites, but the community spirit it fosters.
Nutkhut added a unique dimension with its kite making approach for young people.
Kites, much like life, are about balancing control and letting go. Flying a kite, like navigating life’s ups and downs, requires skill and trust. Nutkhut’s workshops teach young people this beautiful metaphor, showing them how relationships (the string) provide direction and stability. The Redcar Kite Festival not only celebrates creativity and culture but also the joy of rising above challenges and enjoying the journey. It’s a fun, inclusive event that everyone loves!
“Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.” – Leonardo da Vinci
Nutkhut’s approach is exactly what the Arts in the UK needs – they listen, locate and embed themselves into towns like ours and deliver. Lisa Storey – Redcar and Cleveland Council.