In this talk, I offer play as a framework for conceiving of
music as dance—and vice versa. I do so by exploring creativity
in ‘kathak.’ Often described as North Indian “classical”
dance, the form is most recognizable in its percussive
aesthetics, in which practitioners tap and slap their feet on
the floor along with accompanying musicians—one who might
articulate footwork rhythms on a
tabla or pakhavaj drum.
