Bollywood at Bat

Bollywood meets baseball tonight in a flurry of elaborate costumes and choreography at the Colorado Rockies International Night “They really wanted to make this year’s international day a bigger spectacle than in the past,” explains Renu Kansal of the Bollywood West dance studio. “They wanted something upbeat, high-energy, youthful and vibrant. We are, apparently, all of those things.”

The first performance starts at 5 p.m. outside Gate D at Coors Field; a second show takes place on the field just before the Rockies take on the Houston Astros (first pitch is at 6:40 p.m.).

It’s a great chance for the Bollywood-curious to get their feet wet -- and for Bollywood fans to check out the great American pastime. “We play cricket in India, so the transition to baseball takes a little explaining, usually,” Kansal says. “People want to know where the wickets went and why you have to run around four bases instead of back and forth between two -- and why the games are so short. Cricket games go on for days.

“You never know what could happen,” she goes on. “We could redefine the point of confluence between Bollywood and baseball. Hopefully we can turn some sports fans into Bollywood fans as well.”

Coors Field is at 2001 Blake Street; ticket prices for the game vary, but they start at $4 and are available at www.coloradorockies.com. For more info, visit www.bollywoodwest.com or call 303-389-9832.
Tue., May 12, 6:40 p.m., 2009