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SAPAN co-founder Sejal Shah (right) performaning with a member of the SAPAN dance company
On Saturday, one more group will add its name to the list in the form of the South Asian Performing Arts Network and Institute. SAPAN, which translates to "dream" in Hindi, will be hosting a Mela, or festival, as a formal introduction to the local community, and a peek into the organization. The group is trying to distinguish itself from similar ventures by taking a multi-faceted approach in its endeavor. In addition to having a multimedia performance company that includes dancers, musicians, and dramatists, the Institute will include venues for instruction, and hopes to expand into artist promotion and management.
"SAPAN is founded on the belief that by working together South Asian artists will not only preserve what they know through education, but can also advance their art forms by collaboratively working on new artistic ideas and performances," co-founder Sejal Shah explained.
Saturday's program, taking place at the Navy Memorial's Burke Theater, will reflect this philosophy through a diverse lineup, ranging from artists steeped in classical traditions to performances that reflect today's South Asian American experience.
As Shah put it, "[The Mela] will expose the audience to more than just a Bollywood dance show by highlighting the classical and folk foundations under it all, which are often forgotten or overlooked."
In addition to the performances, the event will include demonstration classes, workshops, and a reception that will give attendees a chance to mingle and network. All of this is part of SAPAN's goal to reach beyond the South Asian community and integrate itself into the District's artistic landscape.
"I foresee a lot of collaborative efforts and affiliate relationships forming with other diverse performing arts organizations in the D.C. metro area, such as the hip-hop arts community, Latin music and dance community, and modern dance community, to name a few," Shah said.
The SAPAN Mela takes place on Saturday, April 18, at the Navy Memorial Burke Theater, located at 701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, #123. Tickets are $15 in advance/$20 at the door. 5:30 p.m. doors, performance begins at 6 p.m.
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