Established in 2008, Ipsita Nova Dance Projects is led by dancer and choreographer Nova Bhattacharya, who brings her classical bharatanatyam training into the world of contemporary dance with elegance and authority. Through a varied and acclaimed repertoire - which includes creations from Bhattacharya, Peggy Baker, Mika Kurosawa, Dana Gingras, José Navas, Menaka Thakkar and most recently Laurence Lemieux - audiences are exposed to an expanse of movement drawn from classical vocabulary, integrated with improvised movement, rigorously structured and performed with passion and precision.

Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Bhattacharya has developed an intriguing body of work - ranging from full length classical recitals to powerful contemporary solos and duets - that showcases today’s bharatantayam and Canadian contemporary dance with a South Asian sensibility. Her performances have struck a deep emotional chord with audiences and critics alike, and have been presented by Canada’s National Arts Centre, Toronto's Danceworks and Kalanidhi Fine Arts, Vancouver's Dancing on the Edge, Tokyo’s An Creative and at fabrik Potsdam / 17th Potsdamer Tanztage – International Festival of Contemporary Dance.

Through the creation and presentation of powerful humanistic dance works in collaboration with choreographers, composers and visual designers, the company invites audiences to embrace dance for the visceral experience it can offer.

“[Nova Bhattacharya] dances with a kick-ass authority that brings a contemporary edge to classical Indian dance.” - eye Weekly

“Bhattacharya...smoulders... She is a born storyteller and a purveyor of moods, her intense eyes holding the watcher in their grip, while her expressive, compact body radiates emotion.” - The Globe & Mail

Ipsita Nova Dance Projects gratefully acknowledges support from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council and the Toronto Arts Council.

Photo credits:
History - Gary Mulcahey / Dusk Dances 2001
Banner - Cylla von Tiedemann
Board, Upcoming and Contact - John Lauener
All other pages - Dianna Last