Tamil musical ‘Eegai’ performed in Chicago

The production featured over 200 performers.

Dr Kanniks Kannikeswaran and all the performers. / Courtesy Photo

Eegai, an elaborate musical creation conceived by Cincinnati-based composer Dr Kanniks Kannikeswaran, was showcased at the Rosemont Theater in Chicago over the Memorial Day weekend. The performance, presented in Tamil, centered around the concept of 'giving' and drew inspiration primarily from the poetry of Mahakavi Bharati.

‘Eegai’ was presented as a two-part production, comprising an overture and an oratorio. In Tamil, the term ‘Eegai’ signifies ‘giving’, encapsulating the profound concept of charitable acts aimed at providing essential support to those in dire need.

The overture, serving as a musical prelude, was performed by a 31-piece symphony orchestra. It showcased a seamless composition by Kanniks, featuring music spanning 80 years of the Tamil Film industry. Incorporating melodic themes and highlights from over 50 Tamil films, the overture served as a vibrant tribute to Tamil film music, spanning various decades and composers.

‘Eegai’ was presented as a two-part production, comprising an overture and an oratorio. / Courtesy Photo

The main component of ‘Eegai’ was structured as an oratorio, a musical composition featuring narrative text performed by a choir, soloists, and orchestra.

Dr Kannikeswaran presented a compelling fusion of classical and contemporary Tamil poetry, aimed at exploring, educating, entertaining, and celebrating the concept of charity.

Kannikeswaran, often hailed as "The Magical Musician from Madras”, stands as a visionary figure in the realm of music, renowned for his multifaceted talents as a musician, composer, music educator, and writer.

Kannikeswaran is often hailed as "The Magical Musician from Madras”. / Courtesy Photo

‘Eegai’ represents another significant production from Kanniks, developed in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Foundation. This initiative aligns with the foundation's core mission of empowering the underserved communities in Tamil Nadu through a range of educational and humanitarian endeavors.