Shared Community Gatherings
Beyond Nine Yards
Celebrate ancestral textiles and traditional attire through storytelling, song, poetry, and cultural dialogue. Participants share heritage stories and explore global garment traditions. Operated by The Bandish Network.
Program Overview:
Beyond Nine Yards is a monthly community gathering celebrating traditional attire, heritage textiles, and the stories they hold. Through storytelling, poetry, song, and creative dialogue, participants explore the ways cultural garments embody identity, migration histories, and intergenerational memory.
Originating as intimate kitchen-table gatherings six years ago, this series has grown into a vibrant intercultural exchange that bridges communities, honours heritage, and deepens belonging.
Activities:
Story-sharing from community members.
Live poetry and song performances.
Attire showcases and demonstrations.
Facilitated discussions on cultural identity, migration, and resilience.
Feb 27th - Coquitlam & March 27th - Coquitlam
June - Surrey at Clayton Centre
Tatkaar - Kathak Dance for wellbeing - Clayton Community Centre - Monthly
Tatkaar is a traditional yet innovative model for Kathak dance training that blends disciplined practice (riyaaz) with cultural storytelling, stage readiness, and movement-based healing. Open to all levels, the program supports both physical and emotional wellbeing while deepening cultural appreciation. lead by Puneet Singh - professional Kathak Artist. operated by the Bandish Network
Key Components:
Warm-up, alignment, and breathwork.
Foundational and advanced Tatkaar footwork at various tempos.
Optional live accompaniment (tabla, sitar, vocals)
Choreography development integrating rhythm, expression, and spatial awareness.
Cultural context sharing, artist spotlights, and community dialogue.
Exploration of Nritya (expressive elements), contemporary parallels, and rhythmic theory (Taal & Laya).
Dance health: injury prevention, nutrition, and muscle care.
