Biography
Abhay Shankar Mishra is one of the leading exponents of Kathak dance in the world today. A mesmerizing performer, dynamic teacher, and a creative choreographer of Kathak, Abhay currently lives and works in London, UK. He was born into a family abound with musical tradition and trained under the world-renowned Gurus, including Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj (Lucknow Gharana), Smt Urmila Nagar (Jaipur Gharana) and late Pandit Pandey Maharaj (Banaras Gharana). He draws on his vast experiences to beautifully amalgamate all three Gharanas in his performances and work.
Abhay Shankar Mishra was awarded the status of an ‘A’ grade artist by the National Indian TV channel, Doordarshan. He is an empanelled performer and teacher by the ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations). He has worked as a senior dancer in the production unit of Kathak Kendra (Delhi).
He has performed internationally in countries such as UK, USA, Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Italy, China, North Korea,South Africa and India.
To his credit, he has performed in numerous major festivals such as the Khajuraho Dance Festival, Kathak Mahotsav, Andhra Festival, Kalka Bindandin Jayanti in India. Additionally he has been invited to International Kathak Festival in Chicago (USA), Darpan (Allarakha Foundation) at The Queen Elizabeth Hall (London), Naad Festival (UK) to name of few.Also he performed with Drishtikon Dance Foundation for Prime Minister and President of India commemorating 50 years of Independence was live telecast in 156 countries. Abhay choreographed and performed with his senior students for Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duke of Kent.
Abhay Shankar Mishra is also an accomplished Tabla and Pakhawaj player. He holds a ‘Prabhakar’ qualification in playing the Pakhawaj and has accompanied dance performances by major artistes including his own Guru, Pandit Birju Maharaj ji.
Currently he is a resident teacher and head of department of Kathak at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in London (UK) and also visiting teacher at Shankara Dance Academy (USA). As a successful teacher, he trains students to perform at the highest standard. Until now he has trains ten students for the Rang Manch Pravesh (First debut performance in traditional manner). His invited guests include well known artist like Pandit Birju Maharaj, Urmila Nagar, Akram Khan, Kumkum Dhar and Acharya Gokulotsuji Maharaj to name of few.