National Trust Ticket Portal

Inspired by art installation Helios, by Luke Jerram, Surya is a specially commissioned Indian dance and music performance dedicated to the Sun God. This new commission is part of Derby Season of Light 2025 festival.

Curated by Surtal Arts. Artists: Dr Sowmya Maiya (Dancer), Pt. Kamalbir Singh (Indian Violin & Vocal) and Arijit Sen (Tabla). 

Through the Indian classical dance form Odissi, Sowmya Maiya offers a meditative prayer, saluting the sun as a powerful symbol of light, energy, and life. This is followed by Shiva Panchak, an Odissi Abhinaya (expressional dance) that portrays the beauty of Lord Shiva and his deep love for his wife Parvati. Through her expressive gestures and movements, Sowmya tells the story of Kamadeva, the god of love and desire, who attempts to distract Shiva from his meditation. The attempt results in Kamadeva being reduced to ashes by the fiery gaze of Shiva’s third eye.

This captivating dance performance blends three key emotional elements of Lord Shiva’s nature: the devotional (Bhakti Bhava), the romantic (Sringara Bhava), and the fierce (Rudra Bhava).

The evening will also feature Pt. Kamalbir Singh, a critically acclaimed Indian classical violinist and renowned Ghazal singer. He will be accompanied by the dynamic Arijit Sen on Indian percussion (tabla), adding rhythmic depth and vibrant energy to the performance. 

The evening will conclude with a creative abhinaya dance performance, set to Kamalbir’s soul-stirring Ghazal - an ode to the beauty of God’s creation.

Please note:

• Please present your booking confirmation on arrival at the visitor reception building, before walking to the hall.
• The saloon is unheated, please wear warm clothing.
• The event is on the first floor of the hall, there are steps to access it. There are wheelchairs available on the first floor.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• This event is suitable for ages 5+.
• There are no toilets inside the hall. There are toilets a short distance from the hall.
• Refreshments available to buy in the restaurant before the event.
• This performance has been curated by Surtal Arts as part of Derby Season of Light 2025, supported by the Arts Council England and Derby City Council.