Alright, you lot—fancy a night out that’s less Netflix-and-chill and more “whoa, that was a bit of alright”? She’s Auspicious by Mythili Prakash has just kicked off at Sadler’s Wells East, the shiny new sister spot to the old Sadler’s Wells up in Islington. It’s a dance show, yeah, but don’t go thinking it’s all tutus and tiptoes—this is Bharatanatyam with a proper punch, a solo gig that’s got grit, grace, and a big ol’ salute to women who don’t mess about. I nabbed a seat, pint in hand (figuratively—it’s a theatre, not a boozer), to see if it’s worth your hard-earned quid. So, for you 20-somethings scrolling Insta, 30-somethings juggling life, and 40-somethings who still know how to have a laugh—should you watch this or not? Let’s break it down.
What’s the Gist of It?
Picture this: Mythili Prakash, an Indian-American dancer who’s been mentored by the likes of Akram Khan (yeah, that legend), storms the stage solo, backed by a cracking all-female band. She’s Auspicious isn’t a play with lines or a plot you can jot down—it’s a dance piece rooted in Bharatanatyam, that classical Indian style with the sharp hand moves and expressive eyes. But here’s the twist: it’s not just pretty steps. Mythili’s tearing into big questions—why do we worship goddesses like Durga, decked out with power by male gods, yet treat real women like they’re second fiddle? It’s a proper “girl power” vibe, but not the cheesy Spice Girls kind—more like a fierce, thoughtful kick to the system.
The show’s built around the myth of Durga, the goddess whipped up by a lads’ club of gods to slay the demon Mahisha. Mythili takes that tale and flips it—dancing as Durga, sure, but also as a woman asking, “Why’s my strength always got to come from blokes?” It’s less a story and more a vibe—anger, defiance, joy, all mashed together over 70 minutes. No interval, no faffing about—just her, the music, and a stage that feels alive. The Guardian called it a “paean to girl power,” and they’re not wrong—it’s a love letter to women who fight back, wrapped in rhythm and sweat.
The Vibe: What’s It Feel Like?
Sadler’s Wells East is a stunner—brand spanking new, all sleek lines and warm lights in Stratford, east London. You walk in, and it’s got that buzz of a place that’s still finding its feet but knows it’s cool. The auditorium’s intimate—400 seats, tiered so you’re never miles off—and the stage is bare save for a few props and a killer lighting setup. Think reds and golds washing over Mythili as she moves—just her in a red tunic, no fancy set, but it’s all she needs.
She’s a force, this woman. One minute she’s Durga, stomping the stage like she’s about to take on an army—arms slicing the air, feet hammering the floor. The next, she’s softer, almost fragile, like she’s peeling back the goddess mask to show the human underneath. It’s hypnotic—those Bharatanatyam moves are crisp and fast, all finger flicks and stomps, but she bends them into something raw and modern. The Guardian reckoned her limbs “seem to multiply,” and I get it—it’s like she’s got four arms for real, juggling power and vulnerability.
The music’s live, and it’s a belter—an all-female crew with vocals, percussion, and strings. There’s Sushma Soma on voice (a bit like a soulful PJ Harvey vibe), Aditya Prakash mixing vocals and beats, and Sumesh Narayanan on the mridangam drum, keeping it tight. It starts earthy—think folk tunes with a kick—then ramps up to something wilder, almost punky, as Mythili’s rage builds. For you 20-somethings, it’s got that festival energy—like Glasto’s world stage on a good day. 30-somethings might clock the layered rhythms and think of a night out with mates who know their tunes. 40-somethings? It’s got soul—nostalgia with a fresh edge.
Does It Speak to Us Lot?
Let’s break it by age, yeah? If you’re in your 20s—maybe fresh out of uni, figuring life out—this hits different. Mythili’s defiance is your vibe—pushing back against the world telling you who to be. Zadie from The Rainbow might be your TikTok queen, but Mythili’s your real-life warrior, no filter needed. The fast pace and bold moves match that restless energy—like scrolling X but with more depth. You’ll leave buzzing, maybe even texting your mates about it.
In your 30s? Life’s a juggle—work, maybe kids, the odd existential crisis. This show’s a breather—Mythili’s wrestling with identity (woman, dancer, mum—she’s all of ‘em) feels like your own late-night “what’s it all about?” chats. The Guardian mentions her “personal rebellion,” and it’s spot on—she’s not just dancing Durga, she’s dancing her own fight. It’s inspiring but not preachy—perfect for when you’re knackered but want something real.
40s crowd? You’ve seen a bit, lived a bit. This’ll tug at your nostalgia—those ‘90s girl power anthems, maybe—but it’s sharper, smarter. Mythili’s got kids herself, and you feel that maturity in her moves—strength earned, not borrowed. It’s a night out that’s not just escapism—it’s a mirror to your own wins and battles. Plus, the music’s got enough retro kick to make you miss your old CD collection.
The Highs: What’s Ace?
- Mythili Herself: She’s a bloody marvel—powerful but human. You can’t take your eyes off her, whether she’s raging or reflecting. 20s love her fire, 30s her depth, 40s her poise.
- The Music: Live, loud, and lush—those women on stage are as much the show as Mythili. It’s a gig and a dance in one—your Spotify playlist wishes it were this cool.
- The Message: Girl power, yeah, but not trite—it’s about owning your strength, not waiting for permission. Hits home whatever your age.
- The Energy: Non-stop, 70 minutes of pure drive. No faff, no fluff—just raw, live art that keeps you locked in.
- The Venue: Sadler’s Wells East feels fresh—modern but not cold. It’s a treat to be in a space that’s still got that new-car smell.
The Lows: Any Gripes?
- No Break: Seventy minutes straight might test your bladder if you’ve had a pre-show pint. 20s might not care, but 40s might shift in their seats a bit.
- The Depth: It’s deep—sometimes too deep. If you’re not up for thinking about goddesses and society, it might feel like a lecture with better moves. 30s might overthink it instead of just vibing.
- The Pace: It’s relentless—brilliant, but if you’re knackered from a long week, you might miss half the magic. 20s thrive on it, 40s might need a coffee first.
- The Seats: Comfy, but it’s tiered—back rows might feel a tad far if you’re not near the front. Book early, yeah?
How’s It Land?
For 20-somethings, it’s a wake-up call—Mythili’s like that mate who dares you to be bigger, bolder. I saw a group of uni types after, all “that was mental!”—they were buzzing. 30-somethings get a mirror—her struggle’s your struggle, just with better choreography. A couple next to me were whispering about it like it was therapy. 40s? It’s a victory lap—proof you can still kick arse and look good doing it. A bloke in his 40s near me said, “She’s class—makes you proud,” and I reckon he meant it for all women.
It’s not all heavy, mind—there’s joy too. Mythili smirks sometimes, like she’s in on the joke, and the music lifts you out of any gloom. It’s not a downer—it’s a “get up and go” vibe, whatever your decade.
Practical Stuff
- Where: Sadler’s Wells East, Carpenters Road, Stratford, London E20 2HZ. Tube to Stratford (Jubilee or Central), five-minute stroll.
- When: Runs 28th Feb to 2nd March 2025, but check for extras—it’s a short one. Evening shows at 7:30pm, maybe a matinee (check online).
- Tickets: £15-£35—bargain for 20s, fair for 30s, worth it for 40s. Book quick—it’s intimate, so it’ll sell out.
- Running Time: 70 minutes, no interval—short enough for a nightcap after.
- Extras: Post-show talks if you’re into that (BSL interpreted too)—free with your ticket. Bar’s decent—grab a G&T pre-show.
Should You Watch This Play or Not?
Here’s the rub. If you’re 20, 30, or 40 and up for something that’s not just a laugh but a proper experience—yes, watch it. It’s got fire for the young’uns, soul for the middlers, and a kick for the seasoned lot. Mythili’s a one-woman storm, the music’s a banger, and the whole thing’s got a buzz that’ll linger—perfect for a night out that’s more than just “nice.” If you’re in your 20s and love a bold vibe, 30s and crave something real, or 40s and want a bit of wow, this is your shout.
But—if you’re knackered, just want a mindless giggle, or reckon dance isn’t your bag, maybe skip it. It’s not chill—it demands you show up, mentally and all. For me? I’d say yes, watch it—it’s a rare treat that hits all the right notes for our crew. Grab a mate, book it, and chat it over a curry after. She’s Auspicious is a cracker—don’t sleep on it.
